Manila, Sept. 16 -- Ilocos Norte has recorded 32 cases of leptospirosis and one confirmed death as of Sept. 16, prompting health authorities to remind residents to avoid exposure to contaminated floodwaters amid continued rains.

Dr. Rickson Balalio, provincial health office chief, confirmed the figures Wednesday and warned residents against taking the disease lightly.

"One death from this city is already a warning," he said.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection transmitted through contact with water or soil contaminated by the urine of infected animals, particularly rats. The bacteria can enter the body through cuts, wounds or other breaks in the skin.

Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle or calf pain, chills, vomiting, abdomina...