Know the differences between leptospirosis and dengue

The symptoms of leptospirosis and dengue are very similar, however it is important to be aware of the small differences for a better diagnosis. With the floods, including in Rio Grande do Sul, attention must be doubled and seeking quick assistance can avoid worse situations.

Summer is the time of year that rains the least, but recent floods in RS show that the climate has undergone changes. With so much flood water, in addition to the various catastrophic situations that the state has faced, diseases end up being highlighted as a result of the floods.

Diseases with similar symptoms

Leptospirosis and dengue are diseases that appear easily in these situations. The two diseases have very similar symptoms, and the diagnosis ends up being more difficult to make.

Leptospirosis occurs with the transmission of urine from contaminated rats, and occurs because of bacteria of the genus leptospira. Infection can easily occur through contact of the skin and mucous membranes with dirty water and mud, such as in floods. When infected, the person has the following symptoms: high and rapid fever reaching 38°C or more along with chills; headaches and also muscle pain (a lot in the calf area); lack of appetite, nausea and vomiting; and also the eyes turn red.

Dengue occurs when bitten by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. When infected, the person has the following symptoms: rapidly high fever with 38°C to 40°C; headaches in the joints and also behind the eyes; nausea, lack of appetite or frustration;

Other symptoms that occur and in this case are worse, are red spots on the body and bleeding through the mucous membranes, which characterizes a decrease in platelets.

Contrary to popular belief, it is not only in summer that the aedes aegypti mosquito appears, as it is adapted to the urban environment and even reproduces in water containing organic material.

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Correct information and quick diagnosis

The incubation period for leptospirosis can be up to 30 days, although the average is 7 to 14 days, and contamination can also be through food, once it has come into contact with the urine of a contaminated rat, according to the infectologist at the Einstein. For this reason, there are cases of people becoming infected after eating contaminated food, even if they have not had contact with contaminated water.

Given the symptoms mentioned, it is important to seek medical attention, after all, the symptoms of both diseases are similar. In the case of infection, quick care can avoid worse situations or complications.

Featured photo: healthcare professional holding vaccine (reproduction/Unsplash/Mufid Majnum)