Cesar Lopez / PMPA
People who have had contact with water from floods and floods, such as those that hit Porto Alegre in recent days, should be alert to possible symptoms of leptospirosis. The attention recommendation is also valid for healthcare professionals when caring for patients. The warning about the risk of contamination is from the Municipal Health Department (SMS) and was issued this Sunday, 5th.
Leptospirosis is an infectious disease caused by a bacteria called leptospira, present in the urine of rats and other animals. It is transmitted by contaminated water and skin contact, especially if there is a scratch or wound. “In situations of floods and floods, the urine of rats in sewers and manholes mixes with runoff and mud, meaning that anyone who comes into contact with rainwater or contaminated sludge can be affected”, explains the director. from Porto Alegre Health Surveillance, Evelise Tarouco da Rocha.
The alert highlights that in the official protocol of the Ministry of Health, to date, there is no conclusive scientific evidence on the benefits and risks of using chemoprophylaxis for a large contingent of the population, exposed to the risk of contamination during climate disasters, that is, until the Currently, treatment is only given to people who present symptoms compatible with the disease.
Signs and symptoms – Anyone who develops a fever, headache and body aches (especially in the calves) a few days after touching flood water or sewage should immediately seek the nearest health service. Leptospirosis is a curable disease, with treatment and diagnosis offered by the Unified Health System (SUS), upon notification of suspicion to the Municipal Epidemiological Surveillance. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for successful recovery.
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