People warned about leptospirosis in flood water

BANGKOK, 6 October 2015 (NNT)-The Ministry of Public Health has warned people against wading in flood water as they could be infected with leptospirosis.

According to Public Health Minister Dr. Sophon Mekthanon, people are prone to leptospirosis infection as it can easily enter the body especially through small cuts or wounds.

Those having to walk in the waterlogged streets are urged to wear boots or protective gear to protect themselves from water borne diseases. Public Health Provincial Offices across Thailand have been instructed to monitor the possibility of an outbreak within a period of 15 days.

Patients are expected to be questioned thoroughly by hospital staff regarding their health, as leptospirosis can be cured. Common symptoms include muscle pains and headaches.

Bacteria that cause leptospirosis can stay alive in the water for several days. At least 1,259 people have come down with the disease since the beginning of this year. Of this figure, 24 died. Most the deaths were farmers.


-- NNT 2015-10-06

This is real and should be taken seriously. I personally know of one farang locally and who spent a week in the hospital and is ok now. Btw he is not a farmer.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leptospirosis

Very serious indeed!

Well instead of only warning the health ministry must canvas more and do proper campaign on this issue.

"According to Public Health Minister Dr. Sophon Mekthanon, people are prone to leptospirosis infection as it can easily enter the body especially through small cuts or wounds."

And bodily orifices. This ought to deter people from swimming in it. Flood waters flush out all the nasties that rodents leave behind.

Leptospirosis (also known as field fever,^[1] rat catcher's yellows,^[2]and pretibial fever^[3] among others names) is an infection caused bycorkscrew-shaped bacteria called Leptospira. Symptoms can range from none to mild such as headaches, muscle pains, and fevers; to severe withbleeding from the lungs or meningitis.^[4][5]

Wikipedia.

Oh boy, now all the Bangkokians need a 4wd fortuner.