BMC alert amid Mumbai rains, leptospirosis prevention advice issued!

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Thursday urged citizens to take measures to prevent leptospirosis. The corporation warned that walking in rainwater or mud with open wounds during the monsoon season significantly increases the risk of infection.

“The civic body has appealed to those who have walked through accumulated rain water or mud to seek medical advice and take preventive medicine within 24 to 72 hours,” the public health department said in an advisory.

It has been raining heavily in Mumbai for the last few days, due to which there has been waterlogging in many parts of the city. During this time, people walking in stagnant or slowly flowing water are at higher risk of contracting leptospirosis, especially if they have cuts, wounds or even minor scratches on their bodies, the BMC said.

The corporation warned that leptospirosis is a serious disease and can be fatal if not detected and treated in time.

According to the Public Health Department, rain water along with contaminated sludge may contain Leptospira bacteria (spirochetes), which cause leptospirosis. These bacteria can also enter the body through small cuts or scratches on the skin, causing infection.

Anyone who has come in contact with rain water or mud should consult a doctor without delay and take preventive medicine within the prescribed period of 24 to 72 hours.

Citizens have been asked to visit Hindu Hriday Samrat Balasaheb Thackeray Clinic, BMC dispensary, health centers and municipal hospitals, where medical advice, health check-up, guidance and preventive medicines are being provided free of cost.

The civic body has also urged residents to spread awareness among family members, friends and neighbors about the disease and the importance of early preventive treatment.

The department also advised people not to ignore fever during the monsoon season, as it could be a symptom of leptospirosis, dengue or malaria. Residents experiencing fever or other related symptoms are urged to seek medical advice rather than self-treat.

As a preventive measure, BMC has advised citizens with cuts or wounds on their feet to avoid walking in standing water. If it is necessary to do so, they should wear rubber boots or other safety shoes. After contact with rainwater, people should wash their feet thoroughly with soap and clean water and dry them properly to reduce the risk of infection.