• CHRYSEE G. SAMILLANO
A resolution enjoining all barangay captains in the City of Bacolod, in coordination with the City Health Office, to intensify the campaign against the threat of leptospirosis this rainy season, was approved by the Bacolod Sangguniang Panlungsod.
The resolution authored by Bacolod Councilor Claudio Puentevella said the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) announced the start of the monsoon season and entry of moderate to severe rainfall that may cause flooding in certain parts of the Philippines.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines leptospirosis as both a zoonotic and environmental disease. The bacteria are hosted in animal kidneys for months and even years, and these are released in the environment through the urine of these animals. The transmission to humans occurs by contact with infected animals or contaminated water, it said.
Data provided by the Bacolod City Health Office as of July 15 showed that Bacolod City has a total of 10 cases, three of which are reported as mortalities, the resolution said.
There is a need for Bacolod City to intensify its campaign and information drive against the health hazard posed by leptospirosis, it added.*
