Waded through Mumbai rainwater? BMC issues leptospirosis advisory

Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) issued an urgent health advisory urging preventive measures against leptospirosis after monsoon waterlogging in Mumbai.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira bacteria, spread through water contaminated with urine of infected animals like rats and stray dogs.

Bacteria can enter the body through minor cuts, abrasions, or mucous membranes when wading through stagnant rainwater.

Symptoms of leptospirosis mimic common viral fever, with an incubation period of two days to four weeks.

The advisory emphasizes a crucial 72-hour window for treatment to prevent potentially fatal outcomes.