As Metro Manila and several provinces experienced widespread flooding due to the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat).
The Department of Health (DOH) raised a Code White Alert and is closely monitoring a possible increase in cases of leptospirosis, which is a bacterial infection that can be contracted from floodwater contaminated with urine of rats.
Based on the DOH’s color codes, Code White Alert refers to the readiness of hospitals, specifically general and orthopedic surgeons, anesthesiologists, internists, operating room nurses, ophthalmologists, and otorhinolaryngologists (eye, ear, nose, throat specialists) to respond to emergencies at any time.
According to the Malacañan Palace, the DOH is also coordinating with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) as part of the government’s continuing response to the effects of flooding.
Castro also noted that the DOH health facilities remain operational, with adequate supplies in affected Centers for Health Development (CHDs) to ensure readiness to respond to possible health emergencies.
As of Wednesday, the DOH Central Office has around 3.1 million doxycycline capsules on standby, while its 17 CHDs also have sufficient supplies of the medicine to meet the needs of hospitals and local government units.
“Sapat ang supply ng gamot para tumugon sa pangangailangan ng mga ospital at lokal na pamahalaan,” assured the Palace officIal.
The health department also reminded the public to take precautions against leptospirosis, particularly by avoiding contact with floodwaters whenever possible. Meanwhile, those who experience symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
For any medicine shortages, the public and authorities are instructed to reach out to the DOH or the PCO.
“Kung wala mang supply ay ipaabot lamang agad sa amin sa PCO, DOH para po matugunan agad kung iniisip po nila na sa kanilang lugar ay may kakulangan ng mga kailangang gamot para sa mga ganitong illnesses na related sa pagbaha at pag-ulan,” she said.
