Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Tests Positive for Leptospirosis: Know the Causes, Symptoms, and More!

Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday tested positive for leptospirosis, a bacterial infection generally linked to tropical fever, with doctors saying he was being given antibiotics.

Bhagwant Mann, a 50-year-old AAP leader was admitted to the Fortis Hospital Mohali on Wednesday for a routine check-up.

"At present, all vitals of the Chief Minister are completely stable. As suspected at the time of admission for tropical fever, his blood tests for leptospirosis came back positive," according to a health bulletin issued by the hospital.

It said the chief minister has already been given appropriate antibiotics. "All clinical features and pathological tests have shown satisfactory improvement." According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects both humans and animals. Humans become infected through direct contact with the urine of infected animals or with a urine-contaminated environment.

The bacteria enter the body through cuts or abrasions on the skin, or through the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose and eyes. 

What is leptospirosis, and what causes it? Here’s an overview of the infection, its symptoms, and the diagnostic process.

What Is Leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by the Leptospira bacteria, commonly found in the urine of infected animals, especially rodents. Humans can contract the disease through direct contact with contaminated water, soil, or food. This infection is most prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly following heavy rainfall or flooding, as the bacteria thrive in warm, moist conditions.

Causes of Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with water or soil contaminated by the urine of infected animals. Common sources of contamination include rivers, lakes, and flooded areas. Activities that heighten the risk of infection involve swimming in tainted water, working in agricultural settings, or being in poorly sanitized environments. The bacteria can enter the body through cuts, abrasions, or mucous membranes, such as those in the eyes, nose, or mouth.

Symptoms of Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis symptoms can range from mild to severe and may lead to serious complications such as kidney or liver damage, meningitis, or respiratory issues. Common symptoms include:

• High fever  
• Chills  
• Muscle aches (especially in the calves and lower back)  
• Headaches  
• Nausea and vomiting  
• Abdominal pain  
• Red eyes  
• Skin rashes  

Diagnosis of Leptospirosis

Diagnosing leptospirosis requires a combination of clinical assessment, patient history, and laboratory testing. Because its symptoms can mimic those of other diseases like dengue or malaria, laboratory confirmation is crucial. 

The primary tests for diagnosing leptospirosis include:

• Blood tests: These detect antibodies against Leptospira bacteria or confirm their presence in the blood.
• Urine tests: These check for the bacteria in urine samples.
• PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): This molecular test identifies bacterial DNA.
• Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT): Considered the gold standard for diagnosis, this test is more complex and may not be accessible in all locations.