Rainwater on the streets may not just drench you… it can be deadly Leptospirosis: The Urban Flood Fever that can affect you and your children

Adding to the concern, cases of leptospirosis—a bacterial infection linked to flooding and waterlogging—have also surged this season.

Over the past few months, the city has witnessed a sharp rise in both dengue and leptospirosis cases, putting additional strain on hospitals and highlighting the urgent need for preventive measures and early treatment. Mumbai reports a high burden of leptospirosis every monsoon, recording 143 cases in July. In August alone, BMC data shows that 72 cases have already been reported. When left untreated, the infection can spiral out of control quickly.

Leptospirosis is caused by the Leptospira bacteria, which is commonly present in the urine of infected rats and other animals . When rainwater stagnates on roads and drains, the bacteria survive for long periods. People wading through such contaminated water, especially with cuts or wounds on their feet, are at risk of contracting the infection. Doctors note that urban populations are more vulnerable due to poor drainage systems, frequent flooding, overcrowded slums, construction sites, and the rising rodent menace. Unlike villages where rainwater flows away, stagnant pools in cities provide an ideal breeding ground for the bacteria.

Dr. Aklesh Tandekar, Head of Critical Care, Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road, said: “In Mumbai, we see a sharp rise in Leptospirosis cases every monsoon. The danger lies in its deceptive onset of what begins as simple fever and body ache can suddenly progress into severe liver and kidney complications. Timely hospitalisation and early initiation of treatment are crucial to saving lives. People often mistake the early signs for viral fever and delay medical attention, which increases the risk of severe complications. We advise citizens, especially those wading through floodwater, to remain vigilant, seek prompt medical help if they develop persistent fever, weakness, or jaundice, and avoid self-medication. Awareness and early diagnosis are the key weapons in preventing fatalities.”

Adding to this, Dr. Chirag Shah, Internal Medicine Expert and Physician, Apex Group of Hospitals, said: “Awareness is the first line of defense. People must avoid wading through flood water whenever possible,especially childrens  and if unavoidable, ensure they clean themselves thoroughly afterward. Early consultation with a doctor at the first sign of fever or unexplained weakness during the monsoon can make the difference between a mild illness and a life-threatening condition. Individuals with diabetes, kidney disease, or weakened immunity are especially vulnerable and should be extra cautious. Simple measures like using protective footwear during heavy rains, covering wounds properly, and maintaining good personal hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of contracting leptospirosis. Public health education and community-level sanitation also play a critical role in controlling the spread of this infection.”

The illness often begins with mild symptoms such as fever, fatigue, headache, body pain, red eyes, nausea, and abdominal discomfort. However, if untreated, it can progress within three to five days to a severe form known as Weil’s Disease, marked by jaundice, kidney failure, breathlessness, confusion, and bleeding. In such cases, patients require intensive care management and hospitalisation. Diagnosis is confirmed through laboratory tests such as PCR, IgM ELISA, or MAT. Doctors emphasize that early treatment can cure the illness completely within a week to ten days. Delay in treatment, however, can lead to multiple organ failure and even death.