Thailand’s Disease Control Department is warning the public about a sharp increase in Leptospirosis and Melioidosis cases during the rainy season and flooding. These bacterial infections particularly affect children and require vigilant monitoring.
Dr. Weerawat Manosuthi reported approximately 6,000 cases and 119 fatalities from these diseases in the first nine months of this year.
Leptospirosis can be transmitted by carrier animals such as rats, pigs, cows, buffaloes, goats, sheep, and dogs. The bacteria can enter the body through cuts, abrasions, or skin that has been submerged in contaminated water for extended periods.
Since January, Thailand has recorded at least 2,926 leptospirosis cases, with over 66% involving farmers who have direct contact with water and mud. Many fatalities result from delayed medical treatment or self-medication.
Individuals aged 55 to 64 are the most commonly diagnosed, while children are also at risk of infection from floodwater exposure. Parents are urged to keep a close watch on their children during this time.
Dr. Akkaratan Chitnuyanan, Director of the Queen Sirikit National Institute of Child Health, noted that patients typically present with high fever, headache, muscle or joint pain, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and eye irritation.
Melioidosis is another concern, with bacteria present in soil and water. Infection can occur through prolonged contact, consumption of contaminated food or water, or inhalation of soil dust. About 76.7% of Melioidosis patients are farmers.
From January to September, there have been 2,881 reported cases of Melioidosis, resulting in 90 deaths.
Both diseases can be prevented by following these guidelines:
- Avoid prolonged exposure to water and refrain from wading into mud with bare feet. Wash immediately after leaving the water to reduce disease exposure.
- Drink clean water and consume freshly cooked food.
- Keep living areas clean and dispose of food waste in tightly tied bags to prevent attracting disease vectors.
If you experience a high fever, headache, and muscle pain lasting more than a couple of days, seek medical attention promptly to prevent complications.
