BACOLOD CITY – In response to the recent flash flood caused by Tropical Depression Verbena, the Bacolod City Government, through the City Health Office (CHO), has intensified its efforts to combat leptospirosis. The citywide distribution of free doxycycline and azithromycin, which began during Bagyong Tino, has been expanded due to the widespread exposure of residents to floodwater. Mayor Greg Gasataya has directed the CHO to sustain and broaden the prophylaxis initiative after Verbena submerged 33 barangays, compelling thousands of residents to wade through waist- to chest-deep waters. City Health Officer Dr. Ma. Carmela Gensoli stated that medicines have been distributed to barangays, evacuation centers, and high-risk zones to provide medical assessment and preventive treatment against leptospirosis and other waterborne infections. Gensoli urged, “Reminder to avoid death caused by leptospirosis, if you were exposed to floodwater, immediately drink medicine. Don’t wait for the symptoms before drinking the medicine because the effect will be delayed. This is free so you don’t have to worry.” As of November 25, 2025, Bacolod-CHO records indicate a total of nine deaths due to leptospirosis. The two most recent fatalities include a 30-year-old from Barangay Mansilingan (November 25) and a 16-year-old from Barangay Sum-ag (November 23). Symptoms of leptospirosis include fever, severe body pain, red eyes, chills, headache, and jaundice. The city will maintain heightened monitoring against the illness. Mayor Gasataya emphasized the importance of early protection, encouraging residents who were severely exposed to floodwater to coordinate with their nearest Barangay Health Center for free doxycycline/azithromycin or to visit the City Health Office. Health personnel noted that the preemptive antibiotic distribution during Bagyong Tino enabled teams to respond immediately and continue interventions as flood incidents escalated over the past week. The CHO reiterated that the prophylaxis is not intended for walk-in self-medication and must be administered only after screening. Pregnant women, those with underlying medical conditions, and individuals showing symptoms of leptospirosis must undergo a full assessment before treatment. (Bacolod City Communications Office)