Take measures to ward off monsoon ailments

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With recent intermittent rainfall spells, cases of dengue and leptospirosis rose again in the city. BMC data showed that in the first 11 days of September, the city reported 80 cases of dengue.

Leptospirosis cases have gone up three times within just one week, BMC health department data showed. At least 18 cases have been reported in the past 11 days.

A health officer has acknowledged rising cases and said that people should avoid self-medication. They should consult a doctor if they develop symptoms related to the two diseases.

We need to heed this advice and actually use the Covid experience, vastly different though the ailments may be, to learn and react appropriately. As Covid began and at the crest of the fierce waves, medical personnel warned that several people were not quick to react and seek medical intervention even if they had symptoms. They preferred self-medication. By the time they reached the facility, their health conditions were at times highly compromised. This was true in several cases, though not true of all patients needing oxygen.

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Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that spreads through the infected urine of rats, dogs, cats, buffalos, etc. Humans can get leptospirosis through direct contact with the urine or through water, soil or food contaminated with their urine. The bacteria can invade your body through breaks in your skin, a doctor has stated.

It needs treatment through antibiotics without which it can lead to, in extreme cases, death. It is also good, though may not always be possible, to wear closed, protective footwear. Wash feet immediately if having waded through water. Yet another Covid takeaway: frequent washing of hands is advisable. Do be alert to these risks, learn through credible sources, shun complacency, as weather reports show rains are going to continue.