Leptospirosis in Children: What Parents Should Know

Understanding bacterial infections like leptospirosis can help to effectively prevent the spread of the disease in India. A study published in The Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene in 2021 suggests that the southern part of India reported a positivity rate of more than 25.6% of leptospirosis cases. This staggering figure underscores the urgent need for enhanced measures to curb the spread of this potentially life-threatening disease.

So, what is leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is caused by a bacterium called leptospira. These bacteria are often present in the urine of infected animals.. It can also be transmitted to humans through contaminated water or soil. If not diagnosed and treated early, the symptoms of Leptospirosis can worsen and result in Weil’s syndrome, which is a life-threatening disease.

How is Leptospirosis transmitted to humans?

As mentioned above, the Leptospira bacterium is usually present in the urine of infected animals. This bacterium can spread from the animal urine to humans through:

• Exposure to infected urine through skin abrasions, or through mucous membranes.
• Through contact with contaminated water or soil

Leptospirosis in children

Although leptospirosis can occur in any part of the world, countries with a tropical climate are particularly vulnerable. India experiences a predominantly tropical monsoon climate creating  ideal conditions for the transmission of leptospirosis.

Therefore, parents should understand the early symptoms of the disease and take adequate precautions and treatment to prevent the disease from spreading.

What are the early symptoms of leptospirosis to watch out for?

• Mild to high fever
• Constant headaches
• Soreness of calf muscles and back
• Conjunctivitis or red eye
• Nausea and vomiting
• Also skin rashes

If your child is experiencing these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your pediatrician at the earliest. Early diagnosis and immediate medical attention can prevent the symptoms from escalating and can also shorten the duration of discomfort for your child.

Treatment for leptospirosis in children

To confirm a leptospirosis infection, your pediatrician might order specialized laboratory blood analysis. Once the disease is confirmed, the pediatrician will prescribe antibiotics. For more severe symptoms, your doctor will advise hospital admission for intravenous administration of medications and also for close monitoring.

In children, the clinical features of leptospirosis may unfold across a few days. However, with the right care and medical attention, children completely recover from the illness. It is important to visit only the best pediatrician in Bangalore for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, for quick recovery.

Stay safe than sorry

As the saying goes, it is always better to take precautions to curb the possibility of leptospirosis in children.

• Avoid contact with soil, food, and also water that could carry the bacteria.
• Ensure your child follows hygienic practices like thorough hand washes and warm baths, especially after outdoor play.
• Also, keep your home pest-free to avoid the possibility of bacterial infections.
• Vaccinate your pets regularly.
• Schedule regular check-ups with your pediatrician to ensure your child is always in the pink of health. Visit the best pediatrician in Bangalore at Kinder Hospitals Whitefield for appropriate diagnosis and also world class treatment.  Our team of doctors and health care providers commit themselves to providing reliable care and also superior medical support to children. Schedule your appointment today at Kinder Hospitals Bangalore.