100+ leptospirosis cases recorded, health directorate advises caution

Panaji: The directorate of health services (DHS) has recorded a rise in cases of leptospirosis this monsoon, with 123 cases having been reported from across Goa up to Sep. There have been deaths due to the disease too.

According to DHS data, the state saw 59 cases of leptospirosis in 2022, while 89 were reported in 2023.

The state has been experiencing intermittent rain over the past few days, raising the chances of the infection spreading. State epidemiologist Dr Utkarsh Betodkar said that while there was presently no risk of an epidemic or outbreak, people should take the necessary precautions. He also said that it is essential to diagnose and treat the disease in time to avoid death.

“Leptospirosis is a disease of animals, occasionally infecting humans, and is caused by an organism carried in the urine of rats, cattle and other animals. People working or walking in waterlogged fields or streets get the disease due to contact with contaminated water,” he said.

He said the disease can manifest through various symptoms, including elevated body temperature, pain in the head, muscles, or throughout the body, as well as episodes of vomiting or nausea. Betodkar also said that the skin and eyes may take on a yellowish hue, indicating a potential sign of the illness.

“A few patients get a severe form of the disease with jaundice and inflictions on other organs like the liver, kidney, brain, lungs, and heart. Leptospirosis is confirmed by a positive laboratory test,” he said.

Betodkar said that delay in treatment can lead to death, adding that there are no vaccines available for human leptospirosis. However, it can be prevented by taking the required precautions.

“There have been deaths reported due to this disease in the state, but the figures are not alarming.” The state epidemiologist said leptospirosis is completely curable with medical treatment. However, the severe form needs critical care at tertiary level hospitals like the GMC.