Leptospirosis cases in Cordillera rise 15%; 2 Hospitals (in Apayao and Mt. Province) activate fast lanes

TABUK CITY, Kalinga — Leptospirosis cases in the Cordillera have increased by 15 percent this year, prompting health authorities to activate fast lanes in two government hospitals to ensure quicker assessment and treatment of patients, particularly those requiring hospitalization.

The Far North General Hospital and Training Center in Luna, Apayao, and the Luis Hora Memorial Regional Hospital in Bauko, Mountain Province, are among the government hospitals activated to provide faster assessment and treatment to patients suspected of having leptospirosis and those who may require hospital admission.

The move comes as the region continues to record more leptospirosis cases compared with the same period last year, amid continued rains and flooding that may increase exposure to contaminated water and soil.

Cases up 15% in CAR

According to Department of Health-Cordillera (DOH-CAR) data reported on September 4, the region recorded 196 leptospirosis cases from January to August 2026, up from 171 cases during the same period in 2025.

The latest figure represents a 15 percent increase in cases.

Patients this year ranged in age from one to 85 years old, with a median age of 29. Most of those infected were male, accounting for 153 cases or 78 percent, while farmers comprised 57 cases or 29 percent of the total.

The DOH has repeatedly warned that the risk of leptospirosis increases during flooding because people may come into contact with water, mud, or soil contaminated by the urine of infected animals, particularly rats.

The increase in cases has prompted health authorities to strengthen access to medical care, particularly as continued rains could expose more residents to contaminated floodwater.

Two hospitals ready for admitted patients

Under the fast-lane system, the two designated hospitals are expected to facilitate the rapid assessment, testing, and treatment of patients suspected of having leptospirosis, particularly those who require hospital admission.

In an interview, DOH-CAR Nurse V Clark Dizon said the system is intended to reduce patients’ waiting time and allow those requiring hospitalization to receive immediate and appropriate care.

The two facilities are DOH Level 2 hospitals with the capacity to manage leptospirosis cases, including patients requiring admission.

However, Dizon clarified that patients do not need to go directly to the two fast-lane hospitals.

Other hospitals and health facilities in the region may still assess and manage leptospirosis patients depending on their capacity. Patients who need a higher level of care may be referred through the existing hospital referral system.

“If a patient requires a higher level of care or referral, the existing referral system will still apply, and the patient may be referred to an appropriate facility for further management,” Dizon said.

The two Cordillera hospitals are among 33 DOH hospitals nationwide that have activated leptospirosis fast lanes or express lanes.

Other facilities are located in Metro Manila, the Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, and Central Luzon.

With leptospirosis cases already higher than last year in the Cordillera, health authorities continue to remind residents to avoid unnecessary contact with floodwater and muddy areas.

Those who need to work in wet areas, particularly farmers, are advised to wear rain boots and other protective equipment, cover open wounds, and wash exposed skin thoroughly with clean water and soap.

Residents who develop fever or other symptoms after exposure to floodwater or contaminated soil are also advised to seek medical attention promptly.