{
  "id": 15589284,
  "title": "Doctor warns flood victims to watch for signs of leptospirosis",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/19/doctor-warns-flood-victims-to-watch-for-signs-of-leptospirosis",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-19T09:49:26.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Khaosod English",
    "slug": "khaosod-english",
    "url": "https://www.khaosodenglish.com/featured/2026/10/19/doctor-warns-flood-victims-to-watch-for-signs-of-leptospirosis/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Ratchaburi — October 19, 2026: Provincial public health officials are urging flood victims to be vigilant for signs of leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can result from exposure to contaminated water. Dr. Pajaree Areerob, a doctor in Ratchaburi's provincial health department, emphasized the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if individuals experience fever or unusual pain in their calves, as these are potential symptoms of leptospirosis. The warning came during her visit to residents and patients impacted by ongoing flooding in Photharam district, where homes have been submerged for nearly two weeks.\n\nDr. Pajaree also noted that the stagnant, blackened water spreading across several areas has heightened concerns about deteriorating water quality. Prolonged exposure to such water can lead to health issues like immersion-related foot damage. She warned that individuals who spend extended periods in or standing in floodwater, particularly those with cuts or wounds on their feet, face a heightened risk of contracting leptospirosis, as the bacteria can enter the body through broken skin.\n\nTo mitigate the risk, she recommended that anyone unable to avoid contact with floodwater thoroughly wash their feet with clean water and soap afterward, and regularly inspect their feet for any signs of wounds. If someone develops a high fever or unusual calf pain following exposure to floodwater, Dr. Pajaree stressed the importance of seeking medical care promptly, informing healthcare providers about the exposure. Blood tests may be necessary to confirm a leptospirosis diagnosis, enabling timely treatment to prevent complications.",
  "summary": "RATCHABURI — 19 October 2026, People exposed to floodwater should seek immediate medical attention if they develop a fever or unusual calf pain, a provincial health official has warned, citing the risk of leptospirosis, a bacterial infection commonly associated with contaminated water. Dr. Pajaree Areerob, Ratchaburi’s provincial public health doctor, issued the warning while visiting […] The…",
  "key_points": [
    "Provincial health officials warn flood victims about leptospirosis.",
    "Fever and calf pain may indicate infection.",
    "Immediate medical attention advised for exposure symptoms."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Prolonged submersion in stagnant floodwater transforms a natural disaster into a significant public health crisis by increasing the risk of bacterial infections through direct contact with contaminated environments.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}