Leptospirosis: A bacterial infection that spreads through water contaminated with animal urine.

Monsoon has set in, and streets are flooded at many places in India. It is essential to consider and avoid certain things to prevent bacterial diseases which generally spread via exposure to such contaminated water.

Exposure to water contaminated with infected animal urine or contact with the urine of infected animals such as rodents, cattle, and pets can cause Leptospirosis.

Therefore, it is essential to protect oneself from contaminated water and infected animals especially if one is pregnant or lactating or an older adult.

Drink boiled water or appropriately purified water.

Avoid wading through floodwater. Avoid swimming or dipping head in rivers, lakes or water suspected to be contaminated with animal urine.

If you have any wounds on your feet or body exposed to contaminated water or your job or other activities (trekking, water sports, swimming, boating or animal rearing), involve exposure to contaminated soil or water or infected animals, ensure adequate protection. Cover your wounds, wear waterproof and protective footwear and clothing like gumboots, rubber gloves, etc.

Watch for rodents in the house and contamination of food and water. Get rid of these appropriate using measures at the earliest. If you have pets, ensure appropriate vaccination which is generally repeated annually.

Nevertheless, if you begin to suffer from either fever, headache, muscle aches, indigestion, rashes or a cough seek medical advice at the earliest because these could be symptoms of leptospirosis and initial treatment has better results and improvement.

Children are prone to infections and viral fever during monsoons. Learn tips to keep your kids healthy in the monsoons. Keep skin infections at bay this rainy season with these tips.

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.