Manila Hospitals Brace for Leptospirosis Surge
All Metro Manila DOH Facilities Activate Fast Lanes Amidst Flood Aftermath
Metro Manila’s healthcare system is on high alert as 19 Department of Health-accredited hospitals have launched specialized leptospirosis fast lanes. This proactive measure addresses a significant increase in cases following weeks of persistent, rain-induced flooding across the region.
Emergency Services Strained
The Philippine General Hospital (PGH) and Ospital ng Maynila have temporarily suspended emergency services due to an overwhelming influx of patients. These dedicated fast lanes are designed to provide immediate consultation, diagnosis, and treatment for individuals exposed to floodwaters, a common vector for the bacterial infection.
Leptospirosis Cases Climb
From June 8 to August 7, the DOH recorded a total of 2,396 leptospirosis cases nationwide, with a substantial concentration within Metro Manila. This surge highlights the public health challenges following recent weather events.
Marikina Hospital on High Alert
The Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center (ARMMC) in Marikina has activated its emergency command system in anticipation of further rainfall and flooding. Medical Center Chief Dr. **Imelda Mateo** reported 38 current leptospirosis patients, including four children and 13 adults undergoing dialysis.
“We cater to any Filipino citizen who needs medicine, as long as it’s in the Philippine National Drug Formulary.”
—Dr. Imelda Mateo, Medical Center Chief
ARMMC maintains stable supplies, with approximately 10,000 doxycycline capsules available for prophylaxis. The hospital also offers free medication to indigent patients from outside Marikina with a valid prescription, prioritizing any Filipino in need according to national drug formulary guidelines.
Pasig Facility Expands Capacity
In Pasig City, the Rizal Memorial Medical Center has repurposed hallways and non-medical areas to accommodate moderate to severe leptospirosis cases. Dr. **Vincent Moderez**, Chairman of the Emergency Medicine Department, noted 11 admitted patients and 32 suspected cases in the emergency room. Consultations and treatments for leptospirosis are provided free of charge under the hospital’s zero-balance billing policy.
San Lazaro Hospital Reports Deaths
San Lazaro Hospital in Manila has admitted 124 moderate to severe leptospirosis patients, with 14 fatalities recorded. Medical Center Chief Dr. **Rontgene Solante** stressed the critical importance of early medical intervention.
“Leptospirosis can be deadly, but it is preventable. If you’ve been exposed to floodwater and develop a fever, seek medical care immediately.”
—Dr. Rontgene Solante, Medical Center Chief
These facilities are also distributing prophylactic doxycycline to individuals at high risk, requiring a valid prescription for dispensing. The DOH advises that leptospirosis symptoms can manifest up to 30 days post-exposure, urging continued vigilance among the public in the weeks following flood events.
The World Health Organization reports that leptospirosis, a zoonotic disease, can lead to severe health complications including kidney failure and meningitis, emphasizing the need for prompt treatment (Source: WHO).
