The Quezon City local government has started giving antibiotics to residents in evacuation centers as a preventive measure against leptospirosis, according to a report by Inquirer.net. The move comes as heavy rains from the southwest monsoon, or Habagat, continue to cause widespread flooding in the city.
Inquirer.net reports that the distribution of antibiotics is part of the city’s response to the health risks posed by floodwaters, which can carry the bacteria that cause leptospirosis. The disease is transmitted through contact with water contaminated by animal urine, and flooding increases the likelihood of exposure.
The flooding has forced thousands of families from their homes. The Manila Bulletin reported that 3,372 families have been evacuated in Quezon City alone due to the Habagat rains. Other outlets, including the Philippine Canadian Inquirer, also noted the scale of the evacuations, with residents seeking shelter in schools and other designated centers.
The situation has drawn criticism from some residents. In a separate report by ABS-CBN, flood-affected Quezon City residents expressed frustration over the recurring nature of the flooding, calling for long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes. Their comments highlight the broader challenge the city faces in managing monsoon rains and urban flooding.
As the Habagat season continues, the focus remains on the immediate safety and health of evacuees. The distribution of antibiotics is a key part of that effort, but the long-term effectiveness of flood control measures will likely remain a point of public concern.
