The rainy season is here and with it comes a host of concerns, including the increased risk of certain diseases. Among these is leptospirosis, a potentially fatal bacterial disease endemic in tropical countries like the Philippines.

According to the Philippine Society for Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (PSMID), leptospirosis can occur at any time of the year. However, an increase in the number of cases is usually observed from June to August when most rains are experienced in the country.

What is Leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is a disease that humans can get from animals infected with a bacterium called Leptospires.

Many animals (i.e., cattle, pigs, horses, and dogs) can get infected with the bacterium, become natural carriers, and potentially infect humans (and other animals). However, the primary culprit for most human infections is rodents, particularly rats.

Leptospirosis only causes a mild, flu-like illness in the majority of cases. However, some people may develop a severe form of illness which can lead to kidney and liver damage, meningitis (inflammation of the membrane around the brain and spinal cord), respiratory distress, or death, especially if left untreated.

How can humans get infected?

Human infection occurs when cuts or open wounds in the skin or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth) come in contact with the infected animal’s urine (and other body fluids, except saliva) or with soil or water contaminated with the urine. Drinking contaminated water is also a possible mode of transmission.

During the rainy season, the risk of human infection increases because animal urine in the soil and other surfaces gets into floodwater, contaminating it and potentially infecting anyone who comes in contact with it. The contaminated floodwater can also wash into rivers, lakes, and other natural water sources where people may bathe or get drinking water.

What are the symptoms of leptospirosis?

Symptoms of leptospirosis can vary widely and may resemble those of other illnesses. In some cases, people may not exhibit any symptoms at all.

Common symptoms of leptospirosis include the following:

  • Flu-like symptoms - high fever, headache, muscle aches (especially in the legs), chills, and red eyes
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
  • Rash

If you experience these symptoms, immediately consult your doctor, especially if you have a recent history of direct contact with animal urine or with soil or water potentially contaminated with animal urine.

Your doctor may conduct a physical exam and order blood and urine tests to confirm the diagnosis and recommend proper treatment to reduce the duration of the illness and prevent life-threatening complications.

How is it treated?

Treatment for leptospirosis typically involves antibiotics, such as doxycycline or penicillin, to kill the bacteria. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required for supportive care and administration of intravenous antibiotics. Additional medical procedures may be required depending on the organs affected.

How to prevent leptospirosis?

The following are the simple things you can do to prevent leptospirosis, especially this rainy season:

    Avoid wading or swimming in floodwater and other potentially contaminated freshwater sources.
  • Wear waterproof protective clothing (rubber boots, waterproof coveralls/clothing) if you have to be in contact with floodwater or potentially contaminated soil.
  • Cover cuts or scratches with waterproof bandages to prevent bacterial entry.
  • Avoid water sports and swimming in lakes and rivers after floods.
  • Prevent or control rodent (rats or mice) population in your household by keeping food, water, and trash in closed containers and trapping any rodents you see.
  • Do not eat food that may have been exposed to rodents and possibly contaminated with their urine.
  • Only drink chemically treated or boiled water.
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References:

  • https://www.psmid.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/CPG-Leptospirosis-2010.pdf
  • https://www.cdc.gov/leptospirosis/index.html
  • https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/human-leptospirosis-guidance-for-diagnosis-surveillance-and-control
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4442676/
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4241785/#b13