Amid the seasonal rise in leptospirosis cases following recent flooding, the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) has assured the public that it is closely coordinating with the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) to strengthen patient referral protocols.
In a statement, PGH said both hospitals are attending to an increased number of leptospirosis patients during the flooding season.
‘Even so, and in the spirit of shared responsibility, PGH remains ready to receive non-leptospirosis cases currently under NKTI’s care to allow NKTI to direct more of its capacity toward leptospirosis patients requiring specialized renal care,’ PGH said.
The arrangement, PGH said, reflects the two institutions’ longstanding partnership and shared commitment to providing timely and appropriate care regardless of which facility patients initially approach.
‘This measure strengthens, not strains, both institutions’ capacity, and PGH and NKTI remain closely coordinated to ensure a smooth transition with minimal disruption to ongoing care,’ it said.
Based on the latest Department of Health (DOH) data as of August 22, a total of 4,285 leptospirosis cases have been recorded.
The DOH said the figure is 37 percent lower than the 6,839 cases recorded during the comparable period last year.
PGH also reminded the public to avoid unnecessary contact with floodwaters, particularly if they have open wounds. Those who cannot avoid exposure may take doxycycline prophylaxis upon the advice of a physician at a rural health unit or through PhilHealth YAKAP.
People exposed to floodwaters should immediately wash and disinfect their skin and seek medical attention if they develop fever, muscle pain or headache afterward.
‘PGH remains steadfast in its mission to serve the Filipino people, and we thank the public for their continued trust and cooperation as we navigate this challenging period together,’ the hospital said.