Kochi: The district Health Department has appealed to the public to remain vigilant against infectious diseases as heavy rainfall and widespread waterlogging continue to affect several parts of the district.
District Medical Officer (DMO) Dr R. Shahirsha warned that stagnant water, contaminated mud and waterlogged areas could increase the risk of leptospirosis, a potentially life-threatening bacterial infection commonly reported during the monsoon season.
Leptospirosis risk rises during monsoon
According to the Health Department, the bacteria that cause leptospirosis can survive in contaminated soil, mud and stagnant water. The infection can enter the human body through cuts, wounds or broken skin, making people who come into contact with floodwater particularly vulnerable.
Health officials cautioned that the disease can progress rapidly if left untreated and urged people to seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pain or fatigue after exposure to contaminated water.
Public advised to take precautions
The department has advised residents to avoid walking through stagnant water whenever possible and to wear protective footwear and gloves while cleaning flooded homes or workplaces. People with cuts or wounds have been urged to keep them covered and maintain proper hygiene.
Authorities also stressed the importance of seeking preventive medication and timely treatment, particularly for those involved in rescue, relief and sanitation work.
With the monsoon continuing across Kerala, the Health Department has appealed to the public to follow official health advisories and remain alert to minimise the spread of infectious diseases during the rainy season.