Overview
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caught from water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals, especially rats. It surges during the monsoon when people wade through floodwater, and the bacteria enter through cuts or wet skin. It causes a flu-like illness with high fever and severe muscle pain, and in some people it becomes serious, affecting the liver, kidneys and lungs. Early antibiotics work well, so wading in floodwater with a fever needs prompt care.
Symptoms
- High fever with chills
- Severe muscle pain, especially in the calves
- Headache and red eyes
- Nausea and vomiting
- Yellowing of the skin and reduced urine in severe cases
When to see a doctor
See a doctor promptly for fever with severe muscle pain after wading in floodwater or contact with animals or mud.
Emergency — call 108 or go to the nearest hospital
- Yellow skin and eyes, reduced urine, breathlessness, or bleeding — signs of severe leptospirosis, seek hospital care immediately
Causes
Leptospira bacteria in the urine of rats and other animals, entering through skin cuts or mucous membranes during contact with contaminated water or mud.