The return of an overcrowded Manila hospital emergency room, not seen since the pandemic, amid rising leptospirosis cases shows why the government must strengthen grassroots healthcare, especially as continued habagat rains and tropical systems threaten to prolong flooding and health risks, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go warned.

The Justice Jose Abad Santos General Hospital announced that its emergency room had reached 300 percent capacity due to the continued influx of patients, including suspected and confirmed leptospirosis cases following widespread flooding. Manila had already recorded 556 leptospirosis cases this year as of 31 August.

Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, said the situation should reinforce the need for early consultation, accessible primary care, and enough hospital capacity before preventable illnesses progress into severe cases.

“Let us all take care, especially during the rainy season and when there is flooding. Do not ignore any symptoms. Go immediately to the nearest health center or hospital to seek treatment,” Go previously reminded residents in flood-affected communities.

Warning up

The health warning remains timely. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration warned of continued rainfall and possible flooding or landslides in vulnerable areas.

Go stressed that prolonged flooding underscores the need to bring medical services closer to communities, rather than forcing every patient to rely immediately on already congested hospitals.