Palakkad: The number of people affected by leptospirosis and related deaths in Kerala is increasing. In the first four days of October alone, 45 people were diagnosed with the disease, and two of them passed away.

According to the Health Department, from January 1 to October 4, 2024, a total of 2,512 people have been diagnosed with leptospirosis. The disease has caused 155 confirmed deaths so far. Additionally, 1,979 people sought treatment for symptoms related to the illness. Similarly, 131 deaths suspected to be caused by leptospirosis symptoms were also reported. Health officials warn that the disease is now spreading during all seasons.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of leptospirosis include:

  • Fever, severe muscle pain, and headaches
  • Redness in the eyes and patches on the skin
  • Jaundice and low urine output
  • Leptospirosis can be spread through the urine of rats, dogs, cats, and cattle. The bacteria from their urine can enter the body through wounds when people come into contact with contaminated soil or water.

Health experts urge people to seek treatment immediately if they notice these symptoms and advise against self-treatment. Delays in getting medical help can lead to serious health issues.

Who are at risk?

People who come into contact with dirty or contaminated water, those involved in cleaning activities, or those who work in fields, streams, and ponds are at higher risk. Special care should be taken by these groups to avoid infection.

Anyone working or walking in areas with muddy water should take doxycycline tablets as prescribed by a doctor to prevent infection. These tablets are available for free at all government health centres.

Prevention

  • Wear gloves and thick rubber boots if working with animals.
  • Handle animal waste (from cats, dogs, and livestock) with proper safety measures.
  • Keep urine from cattle sheds away from water sources.
  • Always cover food and drinking water to avoid contamination from rodents.
  • Prevent children from playing in stagnant water, especially if they have any injuries.
  • Avoid attracting rats by keeping food waste properly disposed of.

Who should take preventive medicine?

People likely to come into contact with contaminated water, especially those involved in cleaning, should take doxycycline tablets. A single dose protects against the disease for one week. If in contact with polluted water for longer periods, the medication should be taken for up to six weeks. The recommended dosage is 200 mg (two tablets of 100 mg) once a week for six weeks. Those involved in rescue and sanitation work, people working in waterlogged areas, and those in agriculture should ensure they take prevention against leptospirosis.