The number of leptospirosis cases recorded in Manila city government hospitals has risen to 1,224 after 46 new patients were reported Friday, Sept. 11.

The latest figure covers cases recorded in the city from Jan. 1 through Sept. 11, according to the Manila local government.

Manila declared leptospirosis a local epidemic on Sept. 7 after the number of new cases exceeded the city’s epidemiologic threshold.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection commonly associated with exposure to water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals, particularly rats.

The city government has urged residents to take precautions, particularly when wading through floodwaters, as flooding can increase the risk of exposure to the bacteria.