Thailand’s Health Ministry Warns of Leptospirosis in Flood-Affected Areas

Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has warned of the risk of leptospirosis, also known as “rat fever,” among people in flood-affected areas in Bangkok and elsewhere in the country.

Speaking to reporters in Bangkok, Dr. Direk Khamphen, deputy director-general of the Department of Disease Control, urged people to avoid prolonged exposure to floodwater, mud or stagnant water to reduce the risk of infection. Leptospirosis has a case fatality rate of 1.39%.

“People who have to enter flooded areas or clean their homes and surrounding areas after the water recedes should wear rubber boots or, if necessary, put clean plastic bags over their feet to prevent direct skin contact with the water,” the specialist said.

The deputy department chief also advised anyone who has to come into contact with floodwater to wash their hands regularly with soap and take a shower.

Severe flooding has affected Bangkok for several days. Up to 210 mm of rain fell in some areas within 24 hours. Water has flooded dozens of streets, bringing traffic to an almost complete standstill. Some residents have resorted to boats for transportation. The situation is particularly serious in eastern Bangkok, where canals have overflowed and floodwater has stopped draining from the streets.

Local authorities have urged residents to move belongings and electrical equipment to higher ground and avoid traveling whenever possible. Bad weather also poses a risk of flight delays at both of the city’s airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang. Municipal services are pumping out water around the clock and clearing canals to improve drainage.

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