Warning on leptospirosis in Northeast

Of 2,094 leptospirosis patients nationwide this year until October 4, Dr Narong Wongba said 42 had died.

His office, covering Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, Nong Khai, Nong Bua Lampu, Loei, Maha Sarakham, Roi Et and Kalasin, recorded 656 leptospirosis patients and 12 deaths in its jurisdiction, he said. Kalasin had 11 deaths and Maha Sarakham one.

He predicted more than the 2,824 cases and 39 deaths recorded last year, due to the floods and heavy rains in many areas. He urged people to cover foot wounds and avoid wading through floodwater or walking far barefoot on mud. Feet must be washed thoroughly immediately after wading through water, he added.

This bacterial infection is transmitted to humans by water contaminated by animal urine coming in contact with unhealed breaks in the skin, eyes or mucous membranes.