Leptospirosis cases in the country dropped by 77 percent, the Department of Health (DOH) reported Thursday.
From 1,726 cases reported from 28 July to 10 August, the number decreased to only 396 cases from 11 to 24 August.
Meanwhile, in the recent one to two weeks, 25 August to 7 September, the number has dropped further to 124.
The DOH noted, however, that these numbers may still change due to incoming reports related to the recent typhoon and inclement weather.
Only three regions in the past six weeks saw increasing cases: Central Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
As of 7 September, a total of 4,575 cases had been reported nationwide, an 11 percent increase compared to the 4,112 cases in the same period last year.
There were 393 deaths reported among the cases this year, a 17 percent decrease from the 475 deaths recorded in the same period last year.
The DOH said it sees the decreasing trend in leptospirosis cases as an opportunity to further strengthen public messaging on the perils of exposure to floodwaters.
It lauded the Metro Manila Council for passing Metro Manila Development Authority Regulation No. 24-003, series 2024, which prohibits swimming, playing, gallivanting, and/or unnecessary wading or doing any other leisurely/unsuitable activities in floodwaters.
"The Metro Manila Council’s regulation prohibiting swimming, wading, and other unnecessary activities in floodwaters is a proactive step in safeguarding public health," said DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa.
The Health department urged the public to maintain good hygiene, properly care for wounds, avoid contact with floodwater as much as possible, wear protective footwear, and wash exposed skin to reduce the risk of infection from leptospirosis.
The DOH also stressed the importance of seeking medical consultation if exposed to floodwaters, even in the absence of symptoms.
Antibiotic prophylaxis is available for all at government health centers.
"As cases of leptospirosis continue to decrease, we must remain vigilant and take proactive measures to protect ourselves and our loved ones," Herbosa said.
"However, early detection, timely medical intervention, and maintaining good hygiene are equally crucial and cannot be overlooked," he added.
The incubation period of leptospirosis may range from two to 30 days, with symptoms typically appearing one to two weeks after exposure to floodwaters.
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease (affecting both animals and humans) caused by the Leptospira bacterium found in contaminated water or soil. The bacteria can enter the body through breaks in the skin or via the eyes, nose, and mouth.
Without treatment, leptospirosis in people can lead to kidney damage, meningitis (inflammation of the membrane around the brain and spinal cord), liver failure, respiratory distress, and even death.