San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora announced on Tuesday that he will propose a resolution to the Metro Manila Council (MMC) urging local government units (LGUs) to ban residents from swimming in flood waters and to impose sanctions on violators. This initiative aims to curb the rising cases of leptospirosis in Metro Manila following Typhoon Carina and the Southwest Monsoon.
Health and Safety Concerns
Mayor Zamora, who also heads the MMC, emphasized the need for stringent measures to protect public health. “Each respective LGU will have the authority to impose fines or any penalties they deem appropriate, at their own discretion for violators of this prohibition,” Zamora stated.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa supported this move, recommending that local officials prohibit people, especially children, from swimming in flood waters to reduce the risk of leptospirosis, a bacterial infection spread by animal urine, particularly from rodents.
Rising Leptospirosis Cases
The Department of Health (DOH) reported 255 new leptospirosis cases from July 21 to August 3, a 17% increase from the 217 cases recorded from July 7-20. The surge in cases has prompted urgent action from local officials.
Local Legislation
Mayor Zamora plans to introduce and expedite the enactment of this prohibition in San Juan. “Our goal is to promptly and effectively protect the health of our residents by implementing stringent measures to prevent further spread of this disease,” he stated. Zamora also highlighted that for minors violating the proposed ordinance, parents or guardians would be held liable for penalties.