ILOILO – Iloilo has recorded the first death in the province this year due to leptospirosis, local authorities said Thursday.

The unidentified casualty was recorded in the town of Leon, health officials said.

• INFOGRAPHIC: Leptospirosis

From January until October, 30 cases of leptospirosis were recorded in the province, with towns having many rice fields topping the list. The town of Oton led the list with four cases, followed by Alimodian, Cabatuan, Leon, and Pototan.

According to Provincial Health Officer Dr. Patricia Grace Trabado, farmers should wear protective gear such as waterproof boots when working in rice fields to prevent infection.

Leptospirosis, she said, is caused by contact with the urine and feces of infected rats and other animals.

She also encouraged the public to immediately consult a doctor if they experience any symptoms of the disease, such as leg muscle pain, fever, and yellowish eyes.