Leptospirosis is a disease that often appears in areas with poor environmental hygiene, especially after flooding or puddles. Leptospira bacteria are the beginning of this disease, which is spread through the urine of infected animals, such as rats, dogs, or cows.
Contaminated water can be a source of disease transmission, especially when someone comes into direct contact with the water through an open wound, eyes, or other mucous membranes.
Although it looks simple, leptospirosis can develop into a serious condition if not treated properly. This disease can cause complications such as liver damage, kidney failure, meningitis, and acute respiratory disorders. Therefore, it is important for us to understand the symptoms, preventive measures, and effective treatment of leptospirosis to avoid the risk.
Explanation of What is Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that attacks humans and animals. It starts from the Leptospira bacteria that enter the human body through direct contact with water or soil that has been contaminated by the urine of animals carrying the bacteria. Dirty environments, puddles after floods, and poor sanitation can increase the risk of spreading Leptospirosis.
Leptospirosis is often found in tropical areas, including Indonesia, especially during the rainy season. Humid weather conditions and lots of puddles are supporting factors for the spread of this bacteria.
Symptoms of Leptospirosis
Symptoms of leptospirosis vary from mild to severe. In the early stages, the symptoms that appear are often similar to the common flu, making them easy to ignore. However, early detection of symptoms is essential to prevent further complications. Here are some symptoms of leptospirosis to watch out for:
- Fever and Chills
A sudden high fever accompanied by chills is one of the early signs of leptospirosis infection. This fever usually lasts for several days.
- Hard to breathe
Leptospira bacteria that attack the lungs can cause respiratory problems in sufferers. In more severe conditions, sufferers can experience shortness of breath to coughing up blood.
- Jaundice
When leptospirosis attacks the skin, liver and eyes, the sufferer will turn yellow in those parts. This condition is known as jaundice , which indicates impaired liver function.
- Nausea, Vomiting, and Loss of Appetite
Digestive disorders such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite are often experienced by leptospirosis sufferers. As a result, the body becomes weak and lacks energy.
- Muscle Pain
Muscle pain, especially in the calves and back, is a typical symptom of leptospirosis. Muscle pain will be quite disruptive to the sufferer's daily activities.
- Hematuria or Bloody Urine
In advanced stages, leptospirosis can damage the kidneys and cause hematuria, which is the passage of blood in the urine. If the patient experiences this condition, the patient must receive medical treatment as soon as possible.
Leptospirosis Prevention
Leptospirosis can be prevented by implementing good hygiene measures, both for individuals and the environment. Here are some leptospirosis prevention efforts that can be done:
- Maintaining Body and Environmental Cleanliness
Bathe and clean your body regularly, especially after contact with water or soil that is potentially contaminated with Leptospira bacteria. Also make sure the surrounding environment is clean to prevent the presence of rats and other disease-carrying animals.
- Stay Away from Dirty Water
Avoid swimming or playing in flooded areas, rivers, or fresh water that is not guaranteed to be clean. If you have to work or be active in a risky environment, use protection such as boots and gloves.
- Washing hands
Always wash your hands with soap and clean water after doing activities, especially before eating or touching your face. This simple step is effective in preventing the spread of disease.
- Keeping the Environment Clean from Pests
Dirty environments are breeding grounds for rats as carriers of Leptospira bacteria. Manage waste properly, avoid puddles, and carry out pest control regularly.
- Pet Vaccination
If you have pets, such as dogs or cats, make sure they get the necessary vaccinations. Vaccinating animals helps prevent the spread of Leptospira bacteria through their urine.
Leptospirosis Treatment
If you experience symptoms of leptospirosis, especially after contact with a risky environment, see a doctor immediately for proper treatment. Early diagnosis can be done with a physical examination, blood tests, and urine analysis.
Treatment for leptospirosis generally involves antibiotics, such as doxycycline or penicillin, which work to kill the Leptospira bacteria. In more severe cases of leptospirosis, sufferers may require intensive care in the hospital, including IV fluids and treatment for complications that usually arise. Prompt and appropriate treatment is essential to prevent the risk of complications such as kidney damage, liver failure, or meningitis.
Know the Symptoms and Prevention Before It's Too Late
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that often occurs in environments with poor sanitation. This disease can cause symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, jaundice, and serious kidney disorders. Therefore, it is important to recognize the symptoms of leptospirosis as early as possible and take effective preventive measures, such as maintaining body hygiene, avoiding dirty water, and ensuring the environment is free from pests.
If you experience symptoms of leptospirosis, do not hesitate to consult a medical professional immediately so that treatment can be carried out more quickly. Health is the best investment, and prevention is always better than cure.
Article written by dr. Johana Prihatini, Sp.PD, FINASIM (Internal Medicine Specialist, EMC Pekayon Hospital).