DOH readies more hospital beds
The Philippine Department of Health is increasing hospital bed capacity and distributing doxycycline to manage a surge in leptospirosis cases following recent flooding. Health officials are monitoring multiple regions as patient admissions continue to rise above epidemic thresholds.
Why it matters
Public health responses to waterborne diseases are vital in the aftermath of natural disasters to prevent widespread outbreaks and manage hospital resources.
MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Health yesterday said there are over 600 available beds for leptospirosis cases in Metro Manila, as the DOH noted an increase in patient admissions in San Lazaro Hospital (SLH).
"As of Sept. 3, bed capacity in 20 DOH hospitals in Metro Manila is at 602, including the 260 additional surge beds," the department said in its report.
The DOH said 23 leptospirosis patients - 17 adults and six children - were admitted yesterday at SLH.
The figure is higher than the 20 admissions recorded on Sept. 4.
"Referral and redistribution of patients in available hospitals that are capable of dialysis and higher level care are continuously being facilitated," the DOH said.
According to the DOH, at least 1,204,200 doxycycline capsules were distributed as of Sept. 4 in regions with communities affected by flooding.
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