During the monsoon season in Mumbai, in the low lying areas, waterlogging is often witnessed which poses a risk with regards to several contagious diseases.
In particular, amidst emergencies, people who walk in stagnant water due to the rains are at risk of leptospirosis and these people should seek preventive treatment within 24 to 72 hours from health workers.
Leptospirosis is a blood infection caused by the bacteria Leptospira. The symptoms for the same are headaches, muscle pains, and fevers to bleeding in the lungs or meningitis.
Low risk
Individuals who have only once walked through stagnant rainwater and have no injuries on their feet or body parts who come in contact with the water, fall into this group of low-risk groups associated with leptospirosis. Doctors should prescribe Doxycycline (200 mg) capsules to such persons once.
Moderate risk
Individuals who walk through stagnant water despite injuries to the feet or body fall into this group of moderate risks associated with leptospirosis. After examining these individuals, the doctor should prescribe doxycycline (200 mg) capsules once a day for three consecutive days.
High risk
Individuals who have walked through stagnant rainwater more than once or who have worked in stagnant water, fall into this group of high-risk groups associated with leptospirosis. After examining these individuals, the doctor should prescribe doxycycline (200 mg) capsules once a week for 6 consecutive weeks. Preventive medication should be taken only on the advice of a doctor, the municipality has further informed.
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