Punjab Chief Minister received treatment for leptospirosis: Here’s what you need to know.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann Undergoes Treatment for Leptospirosis

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has recently been treated for leptospirosis, a bacterial infection transmitted through contaminated water. After showing signs of improvement, he was discharged from Fortis Hospital in Mohali on Sunday.

In an official update, Dr. RK Jaswal, Director and Head of Cardiology at Fortis Hospital Mohali, confirmed that the Chief Minister was prescribed antibiotics during his treatment.

What is Leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is caused by the Leptospira bacteria, which are thin, long, and gram-variable spirochetes. There are around 30 serotypes and over 350 reported variants of leptospires, classified into pathogenic, intermediate, and saprophytic groups based on their pathogenicity.

Dr. Vibhu Kawatra, a pulmonologist and allergy specialist, explained, “The disease is primarily transmitted through the urine of rodents, such as rats, which can contaminate soil, water, and sometimes food. Contact with these contaminants, or with infected surfaces through cuts or abrasions, can lead to infection.”

Symptoms of leptospirosis include high fever, cough, muscle cramps, body aches, respiratory issues, and in severe cases, jaundice. “As it causes inflammation, individuals may also experience shortness of breath and persistent cough,” Dr. Kawatra added.

Leptospirosis prevalence varies across India, with the highest rates found in coastal states like Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Orissa, and Tamil Nadu, while lower rates are observed in Assam and Haryana.

How Do Heavy Floods Contribute to Leptospirosis?

The risk of leptospirosis increases during the monsoon season when heavy rains cause flooding in urban and rural areas. The bacteria thrive in wet environments and can enter the human body through cuts, abrasions, or mucous membranes like the eyes or mouth.

Floodwaters can accumulate in low-lying areas, often mixing with animal waste from rodents, cattle, and other animals. People walking through flooded streets or standing water are at heightened risk of exposure to contaminated water.