UAE doctors warn of ‘rat fever’ risks during travel after Indian expat dies of leptospirosis in Kerala
Dubai: The family of an Indian expat in Dubai, who died last week during a vacation in Kerala, has confirmed that final laboratory results show he had contracted leptospirosis, commonly known as rat fever, highlighting risks of infection during rainy-season travel and from rat-infested surroundings. Teejo George, 48, a senior sales supervisor with a Dubai-based engineering consultancy, died at a…
Dubai doctors have warned of the dangers of leptospirosis, often referred to as "rat fever," for travelers visiting flood-prone areas during the rainy season. The condition, caused by bacteria spread through contaminated water, soil or food, can be particularly dangerous in areas with high rat populations. A 48-year-old Indian expatriate, Teejo George, died in Kerala after being admitted to the hospital with diarrhea and body pain, which were initially mistaken for leptospirosis.
His family confirmed that the diagnosis was officially changed to leptospirosis following further tests. Infectious disease experts warn that the symptoms of leptospirosis can mimic those of viral fevers, influenza, and dengue, making it difficult to diagnose early. The incubation period for leptospirosis ranges from 5 to 14 days, and early symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain, and nausea.
Severe cases can progress rapidly, leading to organ failure within days. Experts urge travelers, particularly expatriates returning home, to seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms after exposure to floodwater, mud, or rat-infested environments.
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