82 leptospirosis deaths reported in Kerala over past 45 days

Kozhikode: According to recent figures released by the Kerala Health Department, leptospirosis has claimed 82 lives across the state in the past one and a half months, with 664 confirmed cases. The data covers the period from August 1 to September 19.

The highest death toll has been reported in Kozhikode district, where 18 people succumbed to the disease. The district also saw 80 confirmed cases during this time. Other districts that witnessed a significant number of fatalities include Palakkad with 12 deaths, Malappuram with 10, and Thiruvananthapuram and Thrissur, each with 9 deaths. The largest number of infections were reported in Thiruvananthapuram, which recorded 128 cases. 

Leptospirosis spread and risks

Leptospirosis is caused by the Leptospira bacteria that spread primarily through contact with contaminated water. Health experts warn that the bacteria enter the body through wounds, often from stagnant water following heavy rains. 

“Leptospirosis tends to spike when the rains recede,” noted Dr. E. Danish, Assistant Professor of General Medicine and RMO at Kozhikode Medical College. He further emphasized that many people self-medicate when symptoms appear, which often leads to delays in seeking proper treatment—one of the primary causes of fatalities in leptospirosis cases. 

According to estimates, 10% of those affected face a high risk of fatal outcomes if timely treatment is not administered. While rats are the primary carriers of the bacteria, livestock, pigs, dogs, and cats can also transmit the disease. The bacteria spread when water bodies, streams, or agricultural fields are contaminated with the urine of infected animals.

Symptoms and prevention

Common symptoms include fever, body aches, jaundice, eye irritation, pain around the eyes, and reduced urine output. To reduce the risk of contracting the disease, health officials recommend avoiding exposure to contaminated water, wearing protective gear such as knee-length gumboots, and taking the prophylactic medication doxycycline.