BACOLOD CITY – The City Health Office (CHO) has sounded the alarm over a dramatic spike in leptospirosis cases, with a staggering 600 percent increase recorded from January to February 7, 2026, compared to the same timeframe in 2025. This alarming surge underscores a growing public health concern in the urban center.
Sharp Rise in Infections and Fatalities
According to official records released by the CHO, Bacolod City has documented seven confirmed cases of leptospirosis this year, resulting in one tragic fatality. In stark contrast, during the identical period in 2025, the city reported merely a single case with no deaths. This exponential jump highlights the urgent need for community-wide intervention and awareness.
Affected Barangays Identified
Dr. Grace Tan, who heads the Environment Sanitation Division at the CHO, provided detailed insights into the outbreak's spread. She confirmed that cases have been distributed across seven barangays, each reporting one infection. The affected areas include Barangays 10, 16, 33, Banago, Mandalagan, Sum-ag, and Taculing.
Dr. Tan emphasized that delayed health-seeking behavior and denial of potential exposure are primary factors contributing to severe complications and fatalities. Many residents may underestimate the risks associated with contaminated environments, leading to critical delays in treatment.
Health Advisory and Preventive Measures
In response to the crisis, Dr. Tan issued a urgent advisory to all Bacolodnons. She strongly recommended that individuals with a history of wading or contact with water or ground possibly contaminated by leptospira—bacteria found in rat or animal urine—should immediately visit their nearest health center or consult a private medical doctor for prophylaxis.
Additionally, the CHO outlined key preventive actions to curb the spread:
- Properly segregate and manage garbage to eliminate food sources for rats.
- Avoid wading or coming into contact with floodwater, known locally as "tubig baha," or any damp, dirty ground or soil that may harbor leptospira organisms.
- Actively participate in community efforts to control the rat population.
- Report uncovered manholes, ditches, open canals, or septic vaults to barangay officials for appropriate management, as these can serve as breeding grounds for rats.
Context and Environmental Factors
The surge in leptospirosis cases is particularly concerning given Bacolod City's vulnerability to flooding. Historical data, including a file photo from January 8, 2021, shows heavy rains causing significant floods along Lacson-Mandalagan Streets. Such environmental conditions create ideal scenarios for the transmission of waterborne diseases like leptospirosis, especially when combined with inadequate sanitation practices.
The CHO's call to action stresses that public involvement is crucial in mitigating this health threat. By adopting proactive measures and fostering community cooperation, residents can help prevent further outbreaks and protect vulnerable populations from this preventable yet potentially deadly disease.
