Leptospirosis: A Bacterial Infection with Flu-Like Symptoms, Can Be Life-Threatening
New Delhi: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has been hospitalized after being diagnosed with leptospirosis, a bacterial infection not widely known to the public. As per inputs from IANS, Dr. M Wali, Senior Consultant in the Department of Medicine at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi, explains how this disease spreads, its risks, and the necessary precautions.
Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira bacteria, is a potentially serious disease that is not widely known to the public. Often transmitted through contact with water, soil, or food contaminated by the urine of infected animals, particularly rats, it can lead to a range of symptoms from mild flu-like signs to severe complications such as internal bleeding, organ damage, and even death. With early diagnosis and treatment, leptospirosis is treatable, but its severity highlights the importance of raising awareness about its transmission, symptoms, and prevention measures.
According to IANS inputs, Dr. Wali emphasized that early symptoms of leptospirosis resemble flu-like conditions, including high fever, headaches, chills, muscle pain, diarrhea, jaundice, and redness in the eyes. However, in more severe cases, the disease can lead to internal bleeding and organ damage. Critical symptoms may include coughing up blood, chest pain, difficulty breathing, and blood in the urine, signaling internal hemorrhage.
Globally, around 1 million cases of leptospirosis are reported annually, and 50% of severe cases result in death, as reported by IANS.
To prevent infection, IANS cited Dr. Wali advising people to avoid contaminated water and keep food away from rats, ensuring it is properly covered. He also mentioned the importance of avoiding rivers or streams where animals may have contaminated the water, and taking extra precautions in flood-affected areas.
Inputs from IANS further highlighted Dr. Wali’s advice that individuals should avoid self-medication and immediately consult a doctor if they experience any symptoms to receive appropriate treatment.
Leptospirosis is a serious disease, but taking the right precautions can help prevent infection and reduce the risk of severe complications, he added
Nidhi Srivastava is a dietician. She holds a post-graduate degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from MRIIRS. With a profound passion for utilizing nutrition and lifestyle modifications to manage diseases, she is dedicated to advancing the field through rigorous research and fact-checking. Her expertise lies in evidence-based practice, ensuring the highest standards of dietary health and wellness.