MOPH Warns of Leptospirosis Risks During Flooding

Khaosod•Society•10d ago

Reader Briefing

The Ministry of Public Health warns citizens to avoid wading in floodwaters to prevent Leptospirosis infection.

•Dr. Monthian Kanasawat of the Department of Disease Control issued the warning on September 29, 2026.
•Leptospirosis bacteria enter the body through wounds, abrasions, softened skin, eyes, nose, and mouth.
•Symptoms typically appear within 5-14 days, though they can take up to 30 days to manifest.
•Early treatment with appropriate antibiotics reduces severity, complications, and the risk of death.

•On September 29, 2026, Dr. Monthian Kanasawat of the Department of Disease Control released warnings regarding Leptospirosis during floods.
•Dr. Monthian Kanasawat advised people to avoid walking in floodwater or soaking in water unnecessarily.
•People who must wade in water should wear boots and cover wounds with waterproof plasters.
•Soaking in water for 3 hours or more, or having skin abrasions, increases the chance of bacteria entering the body.
•Symptoms to monitor include high fever, headache, muscle pain—especially in the calves, thighs, or back—and red eyes.
•Critical symptoms requiring immediate hospitalization include shortness of breath, yellowing of the skin or eyes, and decreased urination.
•Dr. Monthian Kanasawat stated that preventive medication must be under a doctor's discretion and is not a total guarantee against infection.
•The Department of Disease Control provides health information via its hotline.

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Ministry of Public Health(สธ.)

The government body issuing the warning about Leptospirosis during floods.

Department of Disease Control(กรมควบคุมโรค)

The organization providing health information via a hotline and overseeing disease prevention.

Dr. Monthian Kanasawat(นพ.มณเฑียร คณาสวัสดิ์)

The Director-General of the Department of Disease Control.