With continuous heavy rainfall and widespread waterlogging across Mumbai, Mira-Bhayandar, Vasai Road, Virar and Nalasopara, healthcare experts at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road have urged citizens not to underestimate the health risks associated with floodwater. While leptospirosis remains one of the most serious monsoon infections, doctors warn that contaminated water can also lead to dengue, malaria, typhoid, acute gastroenteritis, hepatitis A and E, skin infections, fungal infections and respiratory illnesses.
Floodwater often contains sewage, garbage, industrial waste and disease-causing microorganisms, making even brief exposure a potential health hazard. Consumption of contaminated food or water and mosquito breeding in stagnant water further increase the risk of serious illnesses during the rainy season.
Dr. Aklesh Tandekar, Head Consultant - Critical Care, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, said: "With heavy rainfall and flooding across Vasai, Virar and Nalasopara, the risk of leptospirosis rises significantly. The infection spreads when flood water contaminated with the urine of infected rats or animals comes in contact with cuts, abrasions, or the eyes, nose and mouth. Many people dismiss the initial symptoms, such as fever, body ache, headache and vomiting, as seasonal flu or viral fever. However, if left untreated, leptospirosis can rapidly progress to severe complications, including kidney failure, liver damage, lung involvement and even life-threatening sepsis requiring intensive care. Early diagnosis and timely antibiotic treatment are critical for preventing serious illness."
"Residents should avoid walking through stagnant floodwater whenever possible. If exposure is unavoidable, wear waterproof boots and gloves, cover open wounds with waterproof dressings, maintain good hand hygiene and seek medical attention immediately if fever develops within two to three weeks after flood water exposure. High-risk individuals, including sanitation workers, rescue personnel and those involved in flood clean-up, should be particularly vigilant. Community awareness and early medical treatment are essential to reduce complications and save lives."
Doctors at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road advise people to drink only boiled or purified water, consume freshly cooked food, eliminate stagnant water around homes, and seek immediate medical care if fever or flu-like symptoms develop after exposure to floodwater. Early diagnosis remains the key to preventing severe complications and ensuring a safe monsoon season.