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Leptospirosis during monsoon: All you need to know to stay safe
As the monsoon arrives, it brings the scent of wet earth, cooler temperatures, and much-needed relief from the heat. But hidden in those puddles and waterlogged roads is a silent danger—leptospirosis, a lesser-known but potentially life-threatening bacterial Today spoke with Dr Sunil S Bohra, Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine at Apollo Hospital, Seshadripuram, Bengaluru, to better understand how this seasonal disease spreads, its symptoms, and how we can protect IS LEPTOSPIROSIS?Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira commonly found in the urine of infected animals, especially rodents, stray dogs, and cattle. The bacteria thrive in moist environments, especially during the monsoon, when flooding and poor drainage increase human exposure to contaminated water and IT SPREADS
The infection spreads when contaminated water enters the body through broken skin, wounds, or mucous membranes (eyes, mouth, nose). Just walking barefoot or in open shoes through puddles, drains, or muddy streets can be enough to catch the infection. Even water splashes on the face can be a source of THAT MIMIC THE FLULeptospirosis often begins with mild, flu-like symptoms that appear 5–14 days after exposure. Because these symptoms resemble common viral illnesses like dengue or the flu, it often goes undiagnosed. Watch out for:advertisementHigh fever with chillsMuscle pain (especially in the calves and lower back)HeadacheNausea and vomitingRed eyes (conjunctival suffusion)In some cases, it can progress to Weil's disease, a severe form of leptospirosis that includes jaundice, bleeding, kidney or liver damage, and even EARLY DETECTION IS CRUCIALBecause symptoms are non-specific, a high index of suspicion is essential—especially if the person has waded through floodwater, has had contact with animals, or has walked barefoot in water-logged areas. Early diagnosis can be DIAGNOSTIC TESTSDoctors may suggest the following to confirm infection:CBC (to check for low platelets or white blood cell changes)Liver and kidney function testsUrine tests (to detect blood or protein in urine)ELISA test for Leptospira IgM antibodiesPCR or Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT) for more precise diagnosisWHO IS MOST AT RISK?Certain groups are more vulnerable to leptospirosis during the rainy season:Outdoor workers: sanitation staff, construction workers, farmersChildren who play in rainwater or flooded areasDaily commuters crossing waterlogged streetsPet owners and animal handlersRODENTS: THE UNSUSPECTED CARRIERSRodents play a key role in spreading leptospirosis. During heavy rains, their burrows flood, driving them closer to human settlements. Their urine contaminates streets, trash, and standing water. Stray dogs and cattle can also spread the SIMPLE BUT POWERFUL STEPSadvertisementYou can significantly reduce your risk by taking these precautionsWear waterproof or closed shoes when stepping out in rainAvoid wading through floodwater unless absolutely necessaryWash and disinfect your feet or hands if they come in contact with rainwaterKeep cuts and wounds covered at all timesKeep pets vaccinated and indoors if they risk exposure to floodwaterDON'T IGNORE SYMPTOMS—SEEK MEDICAL HELPIf you've had potential exposure and start experiencing flu-like symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Early treatment with antibiotics like doxycycline or penicillin is highly effective and prevents serious MATTERS: PUBLIC AND PERSONAL EFFORTS COUNTPublic health authorities usually launch rodent control and awareness campaigns during monsoon. But individual actions like practicing personal hygiene, wearing protective footwear, and avoiding stagnant water are key to community-wide innocent-looking puddle might carry more than just mud. With monsoon comes beauty and freshness, but also hidden dangers. Leptospirosis is preventable, but only if we stay alert, informed, and early action, and simple hygiene measures can go a long way in protecting yourself and your loved ones from this silent seasonal threat.- Ends
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