Leptospirosis cases rise amid Mumbai rains: Symptoms, risks and prevention explained

The sharp rise in leptospirosis cases during Mumbai's monsoon is a serious public health concern and should not be taken lightly.

"Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira bacteria, which are commonly found in the urine of infected animals, especially rats," says Dr Chirag Tandon, Director, Internal Medicine, ShardaCare Healthcity.

"During heavy rainfall and flooding, contaminated water mixes with rainwater and sewage, creating an environment where the bacteria can easily spread. People become infected when this contaminated water comes into contact with cuts, abrasions or mucous membranes such as the eyes, nose or mouth. Even walking barefoot or wading through waterlogged streets for a short duration can increase the risk of infection."

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Why leptospirosis is often mistaken for other illnesses

According to Dr Tandon, one of the biggest challenges with leptospirosis is that its initial symptoms are often non-specific and resemble common viral illnesses.

"Patients typically develop sudden high fever, severe headache, muscle pain—particularly in the calves and lower back - chills, nausea, vomiting and extreme fatigue," he explains.

"Because these symptoms overlap with dengue, malaria, influenza and other seasonal infections, many people delay seeking medical attention or resort to self-medication. This delay can be dangerous, as untreated leptospirosis may progress rapidly and affect multiple organs."

Who is most at risk of severe disease?

Dr Tandon says the infection can become life-threatening if diagnosis and treatment are delayed.

"In severe cases, the infection can lead to jaundice, acute kidney injury, liver dysfunction, bleeding from the lungs, meningitis, respiratory failure and even septic shock," he says.

"Individuals with diabetes, chronic kidney disease, liver disease, weakened immunity and older adults are at a greater risk of developing severe complications, although healthy individuals can also become seriously ill if diagnosis and treatment are delayed."

He adds, "Fortunately, leptospirosis responds well to antibiotics when started early, making timely recognition extremely important."

Don't ignore a fever after floodwater exposure

With the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) issuing an urgent warning, residents should remain vigilant throughout the monsoon season.

"Anyone who develops a fever within a few days to three weeks after exposure to floodwater or waterlogged areas should consult a doctor promptly and inform them about their exposure history," advises Dr Tandon.

"This information can help clinicians consider leptospirosis early and initiate appropriate investigations and treatment without delay."

How to reduce your risk during the monsoon

Preventive measures are just as important as early diagnosis.

Dr Tandon advises people to avoid walking through stagnant or floodwater whenever possible.

"If exposure is unavoidable, wear waterproof boots and protective clothing. Cover any cuts or wounds with waterproof dressings before stepping outdoors, and wash thoroughly with soap and clean water after returning home," he says.

He also recommends maintaining good hand hygiene, avoiding contact with potentially contaminated water, ensuring food and drinking water remain clean, and supporting effective waste management and rodent control to reduce community transmission.

Early treatment can save lives

Dr Tandon emphasises that leptospirosis is a disease that can be successfully treated when recognised in time.

"The key message is that leptospirosis is preventable, treatable and curable if detected early," he says.

"During the monsoon, people should never ignore a persistent fever after exposure to floodwater. Early medical evaluation can prevent life-threatening complications and significantly improve outcomes."