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Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection spread through water or soil contaminated with animal urine, often during floods and monsoon. It ranges from mild flu-like illness to serious organ involvement.
Causes & risk factors
- Leptospira bacteria in animal (often rat) urine
- Contact with contaminated flood water, mud or soil
- Wading through water with cuts on the skin
- Farming, sewage and outdoor work
- Common after heavy rain and flooding
Common symptoms
- Sudden high fever
- Severe headache
- Muscle pain, especially in the calves
- Red eyes
- Jaundice in severe cases
- Nausea and vomiting
Tests & diagnosis
- Leptospira antibody test
- Full blood count (CBC)
- Kidney function test
- Liver function test (LFT)
Treatment & management
- Antibiotics as prescribed, started early
- Rest, fluids and fever control
- Hospital care for severe cases
- Monitoring kidney and liver function
- Avoiding contaminated water to prevent it
When to see a doctor urgently
- Yellow eyes, reduced urine or breathlessness — urgent care
- Bleeding, confusion or severe weakness — emergency
- High fever with calf pain after flood exposure — get tested
- Symptoms worsening rather than settling
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about leptospirosis. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Who is most at risk?
People exposed to flood water, mud, sewage or animals, including farmers and outdoor workers, especially during the monsoon.
How can I protect myself during floods?
Avoid wading in flood water where possible, cover cuts, wear boots, and wash well after any contact. Seek care early if you get a fever.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.