Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann recently underwent treatment for leptospirosis. After showing improvement, he was discharged from Fortis Hospital in Mohali on Sunday.

In an official statement about his health, Dr RK Jaswal, director and head of cardiology at Fortis Hospital Mohali, had earlier confirmed that the chief minister was given antibiotics.

What is leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by the bacteria Leptospira, usually spread by water contaminated with animal urine.

Leptospira bacteria is a slender, long, thin hair-like, Gram-variable spirochete. There are 30 serotypes, and more than 350 serovars (variants) of leptospires classified into pathogenic, intermediate, and saprophytic groups based on pathogenicity.

“This disease is caused by the urine of rodents such as rats. It can seep into soil, water, and sometimes even food. If you come in contact with any of these contaminants, the bacteria can spread. Even “If you have any injury on your body that comes in contact with an infected surface, you can get this disease,” said Dr Vibhu Kawatra, pulmonologist, pediatrician and allergist.

Symptoms of leptospirosis include high fever, cough, muscle cramps, body aches, respiratory problems and, in severe cases, jaundice.

“Since there is inflammation in the body, the person may experience shortness of breath and cough,” Dr. Kawatra said.

The prevalence of leptospirosis varies by region in India, with the highest rates in coastal states such as Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Orissa and Tamil Nadu. The lowest rates are in Assam and Haryana.

How do heavy floods cause leptospirosis?

The disease can pose a significant health risk, especially during the monsoon season when heavy rains cause flooding in urban and rural areas. The bacteria thrive in wet environments and enter the human body through cuts, scratches or mucous membranes, such as the eyes or mouth.

During heavy rains, water accumulates in low-lying areas, mixing with the waste of rodents, cattle, dogs and other animals. People walking through flooded roads or standing water are at higher risk of coming into contact with contaminated water.

Leptospirosis can also be spread when people swim in lakes or rivers affected by rainwater runoff.

Symptoms of leptospirosis are often flu-like, including fever, muscle aches, headache, and chills, making it easy to miss or misdiagnose in the early stages.

However, if left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as kidney damage, liver failure, respiratory distress or meningitis.

In rare cases, leptospirosis can even be fatal.

Treatment

If symptoms of illness appear, consult your doctor immediately.

Dr. Kawatra said, “It is diagnosed after several tests. Each case is different and treatment requires antibiotics. In severe cases where muscle cramps and even jaundice are involved, A person may be admitted to the hospital and given IV fluids along with painkillers.”

How to stop it?

Protection is important during the rainy season. Simple steps like avoiding walking in standing water, wearing protective shoes, and staying away from flood-prone areas can reduce the risk. In cases where exposure is likely, taking prophylactic antibiotics may provide additional protection.

According to guidelines from the National Centers for Disease Control, if you have walked barefoot in dirty flood water, wash your feet thoroughly with soap and water. Keep your surroundings clean and clutter-free to avoid rodent infestation.

Dr. Kawatra said that one should avoid drinking contaminated water, especially in areas which are prone to floods. He said, “People who bathe in rivers should avoid doing so as leptospirosis can spread in large water bodies. If you are working with animals in farms, wear appropriate clothing such as gloves and rubber boots ”

Additionally, maintaining good hygiene and pest control can help limit the spread of bacteria.

Timely treatment and early diagnosis are important to prevent serious complications of this otherwise manageable disease.