2 dead as Leptospirosis cases soar 245% in Kalinga; OPHO warns public

TABUK CITY, Kalinga — Two people have died from leptospirosis in Kalinga this year as cases in the province surged by 245 percent compared with the same period last year, prompting the Office of the Provincial Health Officer (OPHO)-Kalinga to intensify its call for residents to take preventive measures against the disease.

Data from the OPHO’s Provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (PESU) showed that 69 leptospirosis cases were recorded across the province from January 4 to August 22, 2026—an increase of 49 cases, or about 245 percent, from the 20 cases recorded during the same period in 2025.

Health authorities also confirmed the province’s first two leptospirosis-related deaths this year, involving a 7-year-old boy from Gobgob, Tabuk City, and a 21-year-old man from Babalag East, Rizal, Kalinga.

Tabuk accounts for 55 cases

Tabuk City recorded the highest number of cases with 55, followed by Pinukpuk and Rizal with four cases each.

Tinglayan recorded two cases, while Lubuagan and Balbalan each reported one case.

The concentration of cases in Tabuk City highlights the need for continued vigilance, particularly among residents exposed to floodwater, mud and potentially contaminated soil and water.

What is leptospirosis?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), leptospirosis is a bacterial disease caused by Leptospira. The bacteria can be found in contaminated water or soil and can infect both people and animals.

The bacteria are commonly spread through the urine of infected animals. People may become infected when contaminated water or soil comes into contact with broken skin or the eyes, nose or mouth.

Symptoms may include fever, muscle or body aches, headache, vomiting or nausea, jaundice, diarrhea and chills, among others. Because these symptoms can resemble those of other illnesses, some cases may be difficult to identify early. Some infected individuals may also experience no symptoms.

According to the CDC, symptoms can develop two to 30 days after exposure to the bacteria.

The illness may progress in stages. While the initial phase can involve fever, chills and headaches, severe cases may lead to kidney or liver failure, meningitis and other serious complications.

OPHO urges early consultation

With cases continuing to rise, the OPHO-Kalinga is urging residents to seek medical attention immediately at the nearest health facility if they develop symptoms associated with leptospirosis, particularly after possible exposure to contaminated floodwater, mud or soil.

Health officials also advised the public to consult a doctor before taking any medication, particularly those with existing health conditions, as some medicines may cause adverse effects or complications.

Residents are likewise encouraged to avoid unnecessary contact with floodwater and muddy areas, especially during periods of heavy rainfall and flooding, and to protect wounds or cuts from exposure to potentially contaminated water.

With two deaths already recorded and cases sharply increasing, health authorities are reminding Kalinga residents that early consultation and prevention remain crucial in avoiding severe leptospirosis and possible death.