The number of leptospirosis cases in Manila has risen to 455 after 54 new cases were recorded in Manila local government hospitals as of Friday, Aug. 28, authorities said.

The new cases brought the total number of infections recorded by the Manila Health Department (MHD) and City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (CESU) from Jan. 1 to Aug. 28 to 455.

Two additional deaths were also reported Friday, bringing the total number of leptospirosis-related fatalities in the city to 23 since the start of the year.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease commonly transmitted through contact with water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals, particularly rats. Risk of infection can increase during flooding when contaminated water comes into contact with wounds or cuts in the skin.

Authorities continue to urge residents to avoid wading in potentially contaminated floodwaters and to seek medical attention if symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pain, vomiting or red eyes develop after exposure.