Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann underwent treatment for leptospirosis ...

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann recently underwent treatment for leptospirosis, a bacterial infection spread through contaminated water.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann recently underwent treatment for leptospirosis. (Photo: PTI)

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann recently underwent treatment for leptospirosis. After showing improvement, he was discharged from Mohali's Fortis Hospital on Sunday.

In an official statement about his health, Dr RK Jaswal, Director and Head of Cardiology at Fortis Hospital Mohali, earlier confirmed that the Chief Minister was prescribed antibiotics.

WHAT IS LEPTOSPIROSIS?

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira bacteria, typically spread through water contaminated by animal urine.

The Leptospira bacteria is a thin, long, slender hair-like, gram-variable spirochete. There are 30 serotypes, and more than 350 serovars (variant) of leptospires have been reported to date categorised into pathogenic, intermediate, and saprophytic groups based on the pathogenicity.

"The disease is caused by the urine of rodents like rats. It can infiltrate soil, water and sometimes even in food. If you come in contact with any of these contaminants, the bacteria can spread. Even if you have an injury in your body that comes in contact with an infected surface, you can get the disease," explained Dr Vibhu Kawatra, pulmonologist pediatrician and allergy specialist.

Symptoms of leptospirosis includes high fever, cough, muscle cramps, body ache, respiratory issues and in severe cases jaundice.

"Since it is an inflammation in the body, a person could experience shortness of breath and cough," Dr Kawatra added.

The prevalence of leptospirosis varies by region in India, with the highest rates in coastal states like Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Orissa, and Tamil Nadu. The lowest rates are in Assam and Haryana.

HOW DO HEAVY FLOODS CAUSE LEPTOSPIROSIS?

This disease can pose a significant health risk, especially during the monsoon season when heavy rains flood urban and rural areas. The bacteria thrive in wet environments and enter the human body through cuts, abrasions, or mucous membranes, such as the eyes or mouth.

During heavy rains, water accumulates in low-lying areas, mixing with animal waste from rodents, cattle, dogs, and other animals. People walking through flooded streets or standing water are at high risk of coming into contact with contaminated water.

Leptospirosis can also spread when people swim in lakes or rivers affected by rainwater run-off.

Symptoms of leptospirosis are often flu-like, including fever, muscle aches, headaches, and chills, making it easy to overlook or misdiagnose in the early stages.

However, if left untreated, it can lead to severe complications like kidney damage, liver failure, respiratory distress, or meningitis.

In rare cases, leptospirosis can even be fatal.

TREATMENT

Meet your doctor immediately once you see signs and symptoms of the disease.

"It is diagnosed after several tests. Each case is different and antibiotics are required for treatment. In severe cases where muscle cramps and even jaundice are involved, a person might be hospitalised. IV fluids with painkillers might be administered," said Dr Kawatra.

HOW TO PREVENT IT?

Prevention is key during the rainy season. Simple steps like avoiding walking through stagnant water, wearing protective footwear, and staying away from areas prone to flooding can reduce the risk. In cases where exposure is likely, taking prophylactic antibiotics can offer added protection.

According to the guidelines by the National Centre for Disease Control, if you have walked through dirty flood water barefoot, thoroughly wash your feet with soap and water. Keep your surroundings clean and clutter-free to avoid rodent infestation.

Dr Kawatra said that one should avoid consuming contaminated water, especially in areas where there are floods. "People who bath in rivers should avoid doing so because leptospirosis can spread in large water bodies. If you're dealing with animals in farms, wear proper clothing like gloves and rubber boots," he said.

Additionally, maintaining good sanitation and pest control can help limit the spread of the bacteria.

Timely treatment and early diagnosis are crucial to prevent serious complications from this otherwise manageable disease.