the summer Marked by high rain which is often caused Floods and floods In this context, many diseases are transmitted by contact polluted water They appear, like leptospirosis, caused by contact with rat urine.

The prevalence of cases of dengue, zika and chikungunya, diseases transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, is also a concern that increases around this time of year.

Specialists from Alemao Oswaldo Cruz Hospital A guide on how to act in case of contact with contaminated water and during symptoms related to the main diseases it causes. paying off:

Leptospirosis:

• As floods occur and rivers and streams flow, rat urine (causing leptospirosis) found in sewers and manholes mixes with water from runoff and mud.
• The main symptoms of leptospirosis are pain all over the body – mainly in the calves -, fever, red jaundice (yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes, which can sometimes turn red), and headache. If any sign of symptoms appears, it is important that you see a doctor so that treatment can begin as soon as possible;
• The incubation period for leptospirosis can be up to 30 days, but symptoms usually appear between seven and 14 days after exposure. Diagnosis is made with a blood test, and treatment consists of antibiotics and clinical support measures (often requiring hospitalization);
• To clean contaminated flooded homes, it is best to use gloves, rubber boots, or some other type of protection, such as double plastic bags, for the legs and arms. Clay that remains in environments, utensils, furniture and other objects should be removed with a brush or broom, soap and clean water;
• To clean environments and surfaces, products containing sodium hypochlorite (such as bleach) should be used. that which cannot be recovered must be discarded;
• Food that has been in contact with flood waters should be discarded, because even when washed and dried they can still be contaminated.

Dengue, Zika and Chikungunya:

• The main way to prevent dengue, zika and chikungunya is to eliminate points where standing water can accumulate and cause puddles. In this way, the spread of the Aedes aegypti mosquito can be avoided.And carrier of these three diseases.
• Among the most important symptoms of these diseases are high fever, skin blotches, headaches, and body aches, especially in the joints. At any sign of symptoms, it is important to see a doctor or emergency room, as these illnesses can be serious;
• Containers used as water fountains for pets also call for attention, as they can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes that transmit dengue, zika, and chikungunya.