Port Blair, Dec 12: The State Health Education Bureau, Directorate of Health Services, A & N Administration has organized a series of awareness programmes on Leptospirosis (Andaman Hemorrhagic Fever) at Sippighat, Nimbu Bagicha, Wandoor, Namunaghar and Kadakachang of South Andaman from 11th to 18th December 2013 to create awareness about the cause, sign and symptoms and prevention of the disease among the general public.
The Health Educators from State Health Education Bureau elaborated about the disease and informed the gathering about Leptospirosis is an infectious disease caused by a type of micro organism called Spirochete. Leptospirosis is a zoonosis found in the wild and domestic animals such as cattle, goat, pigs, dogs, cats and rats, which acts as reservoir of infection, contaminates the soil and water by passing urine. Human being accidentally contract the disease after getting contact with contaminated water and soil through cut/wound in skin and intact mucous membrane (eyes, nose and mouth).
The team explained that Leptospirosis is a seasonal disease and occur in rainy season and they appealed the villagers that flu like symptoms such as fever, headache, body pain, and cough, breathing difficulties and redness of eyes may be Leptospirosis and report to nearest Health centre as early as possible. Some patients may develop complication due to multiple organ involvement leading to death mainly because of delay in seeking treatment. Leptospirosis is curable by early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. All the Health Institutions are capable of diagnosing and treating Leptospirosis.
The Health Education team informed the gathering that environmental cleanliness and self protection is the key for prevention of Leptospirosis. They were advised to avoid swimming/washing hands or face in the contaminated stagnant/stream water, not to walk bare foot, not to through kitchen waste/food remains in open space which attract rats and always drink boiled water, any cuts and wound must be dressed properly by water proof dressing while working in the field and to maintain personal hygiene and keep surrounding clean.
