Mumbai, July 08: With heavy monsoon showers and widespread waterlogging across Mumbai, healthcare experts at Apex Group of Hospitals have urged citizens to remain vigilant against leptospirosis and other water-borne diseases such as gastroenteritis, hepatitis A, typhoid, and diarrhoeal illnesses. Leptospirosis is a potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that spreads through water contaminated with the urine of infected rats and other animals. Flooded streets, open drains, and stagnant water significantly increase the risk of infection during the rainy season.
According to civic health data, Mumbai reported approximately 286 leptospirosis cases in 2022, more than 335 cases during the first five months of 2023, even before the peak monsoon, and around 140 cases during the first half of 2024, reflecting the city's continued vulnerability during the rainy season. Experts at Apex Group of Hospitals emphasise that awareness and early medical intervention are essential to reduce the risk of severe illness.
Dr. Karan Thakkar, Physician & Medical Expert, Apex Group of Hospitals, Mumbai, said, "Leptospirosis often begins with symptoms resembling those of a common viral fever, including high fever, severe body ache, headache, chills, and vomiting. If left untreated, the infection can rapidly affect the liver, kidneys, lungs, and brain, leading to organ failure, internal bleeding, and even death. People who walk through floodwater, sanitation workers, delivery personnel, and those living in waterlogged areas should seek medical attention promptly if they develop fever after such exposure."
Dr. Thakkar further advised citizens to avoid walking through stagnant water whenever possible, wear protective footwear, maintain good hand hygiene, consume safe drinking water, and avoid self-medication. Individuals with persistent fever lasting more than 24–48 hours, yellowing of the eyes, breathlessness, or reduced urine output should seek immediate medical care.
Doctors also stress that early diagnosis and timely antibiotic treatment can significantly reduce complications and mortality. As Mumbai continues to witness intense rainfall and waterlogging, Apex Group of Hospitals advises the public to stay alert, follow preventive measures, and seek prompt medical consultation if symptoms develop after exposure to floodwater. Public awareness, preventive measures, and timely treatment remain the strongest defences against monsoon-related diseases.
Doctors at Apex Group of Hospitals highlighted that leptospirosis can become life-threatening because:
- The infection can progress rapidly if treatment is delayed.
- It may cause acute kidney injury, requiring intensive medical care or dialysis.
- Severe cases can lead to liver damage and jaundice, affecting multiple organs.
- Lung involvement can cause bleeding and breathing difficulty, which can become a medical emergency.
- In some patients, the infection can trigger widespread organ failure, increasing the risk of death without timely antibiotic treatment.
If left untreated, leptospirosis can rapidly progress to serious complications affecting the liver, kidneys, lungs, and other vital organs. Health experts advise that anyone who has been exposed to stagnant floodwater or muddy puddles during the monsoon and develops symptoms such as fever, body ache, headache, or vomiting should seek medical attention without delay. Early diagnosis and timely antibiotic treatment, particularly within the first 24 to 72 hours after symptom onset, can significantly reduce the risk of severe complications and improve recovery. added by Dr. Karan Thakkar, Physician & Medical Expert, Apex Group of Hospitals, Mumbai
Apex Group of Hospitals is a leading healthcare provider in Mumbai, recognized for its specialized departments, advanced medical infrastructure, and highly experienced team of doctors. For over 25 plus years, the group has been committed to delivering world-class yet affordable healthcare while promoting preventive health practices. With over 350 beds and modern facilities across Borivali, Kandivali, and Mulund, Apex hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure and patient-centric treatment systems, making them a trusted name in quality healthcare.