The city government, through the city health office (CHO), began distributing doxycycline to residents affected by flooding as a precautionary measure against leptospirosis.

Upon the instruction of Mayor Raisa Treñas, barangays affected by flooding last week were prioritized in the distribution.

CHO data showed that 153 residents from Barangay Lanit, 50 from Camalig, 56 from Tagbac, 88 from Balantang, and 143 from Buntatala received the prophylaxis.

Treñas said the initiative is part of the city government’s enhanced health response and disaster mitigation efforts.

In a follow-up interview, Joy Fantilaga-Gorzal, spokesperson for Treñas, said the mayor is urging the public to immediately seek medical consultation once they have symptoms.

Symptoms of the disease include fever, body or muscle pain, headache, and, in severe cases, yellow skin or eyes (jaundice).

She also assured that the distribution of doxycycline is open to all barangays and there is sufficient supply of the medicine for those affected by the flooding.

“Just coordinate with our CHO,” she said.

Iloilo City has logged 23 suspected cases of leptospirosis with three deaths as of July 15. (PNA)