Health authorities in Mandaue City have officially confirmed just a single case of leptospirosis for the entire year of 2025, a figure that stands in stark contrast to the high number of suspected infections reported in the area.
Official Data Shows a Single Confirmed Infection
According to Debra Catulong, head of the Mandaue City Health Office (CHO), the official record from the Department of Health (DOH) indicates that as of December 8, 2025, the city had logged 62 suspected cases of leptospirosis. However, only one of these has been verified through definitive laboratory testing.
Catulong clarified that this data encompasses reports from the whole year up to the present date in December. The consolidation of these figures is handled by the DOH Regional Epidemiology Unit, ensuring standardized reporting across the region.
Delay in Lab Results Explains High Suspected Count
The city health chief moved to address public concern, explaining that the large number of suspected cases does not automatically signal a sudden surge in infections. A key factor is the inherent delay in laboratory confirmation for leptospirosis.
"Many patients are still awaiting the confirmed results from the laboratory," Catulong stated. She noted that this waiting period is a normal part of the diagnostic process, which is why a majority of the reports remain classified under the "suspected" category while testing is pending.
Overall Risk Remains Low, Says Health Official
Despite the recorded suspected cases, Catulong emphasized that the overall risk of leptospirosis transmission in Mandaue City is currently assessed as low. She stressed that the time required for laboratory processing is standard procedure and should not be interpreted as a failure in disease monitoring or response efforts by health agencies.
The statement aims to reassure the public while maintaining vigilance. Health officials continue to monitor the situation and advise residents, especially those in flood-prone areas, to take necessary precautions against the bacterial disease, which is often spread through water contaminated by animal urine.
