As the rainy season sets in, health reform advocate Dr. Tony Leachon warned the public of a possible rise in various illnesses, especially those caused by mosquitoes, contaminated water, and poor hygiene.
In an interview with DZRH on Sunday, Dr. Leachon emphasized the importance of prevention, vigilance, and early medical consultation to avoid complications and fatalities.
“Dahil sa tag-ulan, increase humidity, stagnant water at full sanitation sa flooded areas, expected natin na ang Pilipinas ay dinadaanan ng 22 typhoons a year,” said Leachon.
Three main categories of most common illnesses during rainy season:
- Mosquito-borne illnesses – The most common being dengue fever, which manifests with symptoms like fever, rashes, and back pain. In advanced cases, it can cause bleeding.
He also noted that malaria remains present in some areas of the Philippines, particularly in Palawan and mountainous regions, and is likewise transmitted by mosquitoes.
- 'Waterborne diseases – Dr. Leachon warned about leptospirosis, caused by exposure to flood waters contaminated with rat urine. Leachon explained that the illness typically presents with fever and jaundice, and in severe cases, can lead to dialysis. He emphasized that leptospirosis is very common during the rainy season.
On leptospirosis, Dr. Leachon highlighted the need to monitor early symptoms, especially following heavy rains and flooding.
He also cited cholera and typhoid fever as serious threats linked to unsafe water, stressing the importance of prevention, proper sanitation, and keeping children from wading in floodwaters.
He called on the Department of Health (DOH) to preposition medications, especially those used for leptospirosis and hepatitis A, which is also common during floods due to consumption of contaminated food and water.
- Respiratory illnesses – Dr. Leachon identified respiratory illnesses as another major health concern during the rainy season.
He noted that cases of flu and pneumonia tend to increase, along with a small but continuing number of COVID-19 infections. While these COVID cases are highly transmissible, he clarified that they are generally not fatal.
Dr. Leachon mentioned reports from the DOH about a new “Nimbus variant” seen in the U.S. and Southeast Asia, but clarified that it is not a cause for alarm. Standard isolation, testing, and precautionary measures still apply.
For mild respiratory symptoms, he advises home remedies and cautions against unnecessary medication.
“Hindi po [dapat uminom ng paracetamol agad]. Kasi ang paracetamol, pagka hindi po indicated, pwede hong makasira ng inyong liver,” he explained.
He also pointed out that overusing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can harm the kidneys, advising the public to avoid such medications unless absolutely necessary. He shared that he personally prefers natural remedies for minor symptoms.
Most at risk people
Regarding vulnerable groups, he emphasized that infants and the elderly are most at risk.
“Magpabakuna kayo sa flu, pneumonia... Sa elderly naman, herpes zoster... Kasi hindi nyo alam kung saan tatama yung shingles... Maglalast po yung pain 3 to 6 months. Prevention, prevention, prevention,” he strongly urged the public to get vaccinated.
He underscored that prevention is essential, repeating the message: prevention, prevention, prevention.
When asked about when to bring a child suspected of having dengue to the hospital, Dr. Leachon advised that if a child develops a high-grade fever and rashes within the first two days, they should be taken to the hospital immediately for testing.
“Napaka-importante po yung awareness. Education, education, very important po,” he stressed.
Ultimately, Dr. Leachon concluded that basic hygiene and preventive health practices remain the most powerful defenses against seasonal diseases.
“Dapat medyo marunong na tayo diyan ng hygiene. Ang tawag nila ay minimum public health hygiene measures,” he advised.
As the country prepares for several weeks of heavy rain, health officials and advocates are reminding Filipinos to take extra care to protect their health and help keep their communities safe.
