Context:
In Kerala, the threat from the Nipah virus has recently subsided after a critical 42-day observation period without any new cases. However, the relief was short-lived as an outbreak of Leptospirosis, often referred to as “rat fever,” has emerged. This bacterial infection poses a new public health challenge, especially following the monsoon season, highlighting ongoing health management struggles in the region.
Relevance:
GS II: Health
Dimensions of the Article:
- Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis:
- The disease is caused by pathogenic bacteria from the genus Leptospira, which are transmitted zoonotically from animals to humans.
Transmission and Reservoirs:
- Animal Reservoirs: Key carriers include rodents, cattle, pigs, and dogs, harboring the bacteria primarily in their kidneys and genital areas.
- Modes of Transmission: Human infection occurs via direct contact with infected animal urine or through environments contaminated with such urine (water, soil, or food).
Symptoms and Diagnosis:
- Symptom Range: Symptoms vary from mild, flu-like effects to severe conditions such as Weil’s syndrome, meningitis, and pulmonary hemorrhage.
- Incubation Period: Typically 7-10 days with symptoms like fever, headache, and jaundice.
- Diagnosis Challenges: The disease’s broad symptom range often mimics other illnesses, leading to frequent underdiagnosis.
Epidemiology:
- Prevalence: Most common in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly South-East Asia (India, Indonesia, Thailand, Sri Lanka) during rainy seasons.
- High-Risk Populations: Individuals frequently in contact with animals or contaminated environments, such as farmers, veterinarians, and sewer workers.
Prevention and Treatment:
- Preventive Measures: Includes controlling animal reservoirs, avoiding contact with contaminated areas, wearing protective clothing, and maintaining stringent sanitation practices.
- Vaccination: Available for animals (dogs, pigs, cattle) to reduce transmission, though it may not prevent the bacteria from persisting in kidneys.
- Treatment Protocol: Effective treatment with antibiotics such as penicillin G, doxycycline, and ceftriaxone.
-Source: Down To Earth
