Leptospirosis

The ever-increasing cases of Leptospirosis in Kerala have emerged as a major public health concern. Many people have also died due to this.

About Leptospirosis

• What it is: A zoonotic disease caused by bacteria
  • Zoonotic means that it is transmitted from animals to people.
• Other names: Rat fever
• Bacteria: Caused by Leptospira bacteria found in animals, especially in the urine of rats.
  • This bacteria enters the body through wounds and mucous membranes.
  • Apart from rats, farm animals and dogs can also spread this disease.
• Common symptoms: Fever, myalgia and headache
  • However, be on the lookout for more serious symptoms such as tachypnea, low blood pressure (hypotension) and jaundice.
• Risks: Some people may have no symptoms but may develop serious complications such as kidney failure, meningitis, liver problems and respiratory problems
  • If left untreated, leptospirosis can rapidly damage internal organs, making it a silent killer. The disease has a high mortality rate.

• Affected population: People working outside or with animals are at greater risk
• People engaged in rice and sugarcane cultivation, farmers, sewer workers, veterinarians, dairy workers and military personnel etc. can be affected by this.