The number of deaths from leptospirosis has reached 138 from 1,887 cases recorded by the Department of Health (DoH) from 15 reporting hospitals in Metro Manila from October 1 to 20, prompting health officials to remind the public to take precautionary measures against the Leptospira bacteria in the wake of the coming storm.

With typhoon “Ramil” nearing Northern Luzon, National Center for Disease Prevention and Control (NCDPC) director Dr. Yolanda Oliveros advised the public to stay indoors to avoid contracting the leptospirosis.

"If the activity is not important, it is wise to just stay in the homes. If you really need to leave the house, wear protective clothing like boots so that you will avoid getting direct contact with floodwater," she said.

According to the DoH, clustering of leptospirosis cases is present in nearly all cities in Metro Manila.

Clustering of cases has been observed in Caloocan with 2 cases; Navotas, 1 case; Marikina, 8; Paranaque, 6; Taguig, 5; Muntinlupa, 3; San Juan, 1; Quezon City, 2; Pasig, 5; Makati, 3; and Pasay, 3 cases.

Health teams continue to distribute prophylactic medicines to flood-prone areas to prevent the increase of leptospirosis cases.

Some 5 million capsules of antibiotic Doxycycline is set to be delivered in Metro Manila this week.

Meanwhile, Dr. Eric Tayag, DoH chief epidemiologist revealed in a Senate hearing that the number of leptospirosis cases in the Philippines is now one of the highest in the world.

Tayag told the Senate climate change committee that the DoH has asked for help from the international community in addressing the leptospirosis problem which health authorities associated with the recent rains and floods in Metro Manila.