Due to the bad weather and severe floods these days, one of the biggest health risks we are all facing is Leptospirosis (Rat Fever). This risk continues for several weeks even after flood water goes down. Please read the following carefully and keep your family safe.
💡 What is Leptospirosis (Rat Fever)?
It is a disease caused by a type of bacteria called Leptospira. These bacteria move very fast and enter the human body through contaminated water, mud, or soil.
The infection usually spreads through the urine of rats, cattle, and other animals, which mixes with floodwater or muddy water.
💁♀ Who is at risk?
You are at higher risk if you:
- Were caught in floodwater or walked through it
- Are cleaning your house or surroundings after floods
- Work in paddy fields or farmlands
- Clean drains or canals
- Have cuts or scratches on your feet/legs and touch muddy or wet areas
⚠ Symptoms
Symptoms usually appear 5–14 days after the bacteria enter the body. Common signs are:
- High fever (can be mistaken for flu or dengue)
- Severe headache
- Red eyes
- Muscle and joint pain (especially around the calves)
- Vomiting or nausea
- Stomach pain
👉 If you have fever for more than 2–3 days or these symptoms appear, see a doctor immediately.
🛡 How to protect yourself
- Wear protective clothing: Use long rubber boots and gloves when working in dirty or flooded areas.
- Cover wounds: Keep any cuts or scratches covered so water cannot enter.
- Use clean water: Avoid washing your face, hands, and feet with water that may be contaminated.
- Control rats: Use traps or rodent control methods around your home and farmland.
- Keep the environment clean: Remove places where water collects and clean your surroundings.
💊 Get preventive medicine
If you were exposed to floodwater or need to clean flood-affected areas, you can get Doxycycline for free from your nearest MOH office, PHI officer, or government hospital.
👉 Take it only with medical advice. (Pregnant mothers and young children will receive different medicines.)
🛑 Proper Treatment
Leptospirosis can be completely cured with the correct antibiotics. Early treatment is extremely important and can save your life.
Stay safe and healthy. For more information, contact your pharmacist, local PHI, or a doctor.
