The monsoon brings relief from the summer heat, but it also creates the perfect conditions for several infections to spread. Among them is leptospirosis, a bacterial disease that often goes unnoticed because its early symptoms resemble common seasonal illnesses such as dengue, malaria, or viral fever. However, experts warn that recognising the warning signs early and seeking timely treatment can make all the difference in preventing serious complications.
Heavy rainfall and flooding create conditions that allow the infection to spread more easily, making the rainy season a high-risk period. Explaining why this happens, Dr Monalisa Sahu, consultant infectious diseases at Yashoda Hospitals, says, “Because the bacteria spread more readily in damp, contaminated environments, leptospirosis tends to increase during the monsoon. Urine from infected animals, particularly rats, can mix with soil and standing water due to heavy rains, waterlogging, and flooding.”
The illness is becoming increasingly difficult to identify in its early stages because it closely resembles other seasonal infections. Highlighting this challenge, Dr Naresh Gundapuneni, consultant general physician and diabetologist at Renova Hospitals, Kompally, shares, “Every monsoon, doctors see a noticeable rise in leptospirosis cases, especially after spells of heavy rain and waterlogging. Now, a significant number present with symptoms that closely resemble viral fever, dengue, or even influenza, making early diagnosis more challenging.”
Certain groups are more likely to develop the infection or suffer severe illness if infected. Speaking about those who should be extra cautious, Dr Monalisa explains, “Sanitation workers, sewage workers, farmers, construction workers, animal handlers, and those engaged in drainage or flood cleanup are among those who work outside or in damp environments and are therefore more vulnerable. More serious illnesses can also strike children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems or long-term ailments like diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, or respiratory disorders.”
Recognising the warning signs early can prevent complications and improve recovery. Explaining what people should look out for, Dr Naresh narrates, “Leptospirosis is often called a ‘great imitator’ because its early symptoms — fever, headache, body aches, chills, and fatigue — overlap with several common seasonal infections. Severe pain in calf muscles, redness of the eyes without discharge, yellowing of the eyes or skin, reduced urine output, or a history of walking through floodwater or sewage-contaminated water should prompt further evaluation. Laboratory tests are important, but the most critical step is to suspect leptospirosis early.”
Many people assume the infection is nothing more than a seasonal fever, but doctors caution against this misconception. Stressing the importance of prevention, Dr Monalisa expresses, “The idea that leptospirosis is merely a minor seasonal fever that will go away on its own is a common misconception. In actuality, if left untreated, it can worsen rapidly.”
Ignoring a persistent fever and relying on self-medication can have dangerous consequences. Explaining when medical attention is necessary, Dr Naresh highlights, “Anyone with fever lasting more than two or three days, especially if it is accompanied by severe muscle pain, vomiting, dark urine, breathlessness, unusual weakness, or jaundice, should seek medical attention. When diagnosed early, leptospirosis usually responds well to appropriate antibiotics.”
Doctors also warn that delaying treatment can allow the infection to damage multiple organs. Explaining the risks, Dr Naresh concludes, “If treatment is delayed, the infection can affect multiple organs. The kidneys and liver are most commonly involved, leading to kidney injury and jaundice. In severe cases, the lungs may be affected and may cause bleeding in the lungs or respiratory failure. Older adults, people with diabetes, chronic kidney or liver disease, weakened immunity, and those with repeated occupational exposure to contaminated water are at higher risk of developing severe illness.”
As monsoon showers continue, experts advise people not to ignore persistent fever, especially after exposure to floodwater or stagnant water. Simple precautions, timely medical evaluation, and early treatment can go a long way in reducing complications and ensuring that a seasonal infection does not turn into a life-threatening illness.
