Leptospirosis is not associated only with rats
Bacteria from the urine of several infected animal species can contaminate water and soil. Illness can begin 2–30 days after exposure. Fever, headache, muscle aches, nausea and red eyes can resemble other illnesses.
- Seek care promptly if leptospirosis is suspected.
- Cover wounds with waterproof dressings and avoid potentially contaminated water or soil.
Understanding melioidosis
This bacterial infection can follow contact with contaminated soil or water through wounds, inhalation, or ingestion. Diabetes, kidney disease and a weakened immune system increase risk. Symptoms may include fever, cough, chest pain, skin lesions or severe infection.
- Avoid soil and standing water if you have open wounds or relevant chronic conditions.
- Use appropriate protection, such as boots, when soil exposure cannot be avoided.
When not to wait at home
Contact a healthcare service promptly for fever after floodwater exposure. Breathing difficulty, confusion, yellow skin or eyes, or worsening illness require immediate assessment. Do not wait for a home test.
- Bring the dates of exposure and symptom onset.
- Let a clinician choose investigations and antibiotics; do not self-prescribe preventive antibiotics.
Sources
Sources checked on 29 September 2026. General guidance, not a live outbreak report.