Sesa warns of leptospirosis risk after rains in Paraná

Leptospirosis after rains and floods again motivated an alert from the State Secretariat of Health of Paraná (Sesa). The guidance also applies to residents of Ponta Grossa and Campos Gerais, especially in areas subject to accumulation of contaminated water and mud. Between January and August 2026, the state registered 1,051 notifications and 210 confirmed cases of the disease.

Leptospirosis is caused by the bacteria Leptospira, found mainly in the urine of infected animals, especially rats. In periods of heavy rain, floods and flooding, the bacteria can spread through the water and remain in the environment, increasing the risk of contamination.

Transmission can occur when contaminated water comes into contact with lesions on the skin or with mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth. Prolonged stay in flooded places also increases the possibility of exposure.

According to the Ministry of Health, the disease can evolve into severe forms and present high lethality among patients in this condition.

Paraná recorded 210 confirmed cases

Data from the Secretary of State for Health show that 1,051 leptospirosis reports were recorded in the Paraná between January and August of this year. Of this total, 210 cases were confirmed.

The state secretary of health, César Neves, stressed that the high volume of rain can increase the exposure of the population to the bacterium.

The main guideline is to avoid any unnecessary contact with water from floods and floods. Children should also not play or swim in affected areas.

The worry doesn’t end when the water goes down. Mud accumulated inside homes, on furniture, vehicles and other objects may also be contaminated.

Protection is needed during cleaning

When it is not possible to avoid affected areas, Sesa recommends the use of protective equipment, especially waterproof boots and gloves.

In the absence of these materials, sturdy plastic bags can be used as a temporary barrier to protect hands and feet during cleaning activities.

The head of the zoonoses sector of Sesa, Roselane Oliveira de Souza Langer, highlights that preventing direct contact with contaminated water or mud is one of the main measures to reduce the risk of the disease.

After any contact with flood water, the recommendation is to wash the body with clean water and soap as soon as possible.

What are the symptoms of leptospirosis?

Symptoms usually begin between five and 14 days after exposure to the bacteria, although they may appear within a period of up to 30 days.

Among the warning signs are:

high fever;if

headache;

Muscle pains, especially in the calves;

joint pain;

nausea;

vomiting;

diarrhoea;

yellow skin and eyes, a condition known as jaundice.

Those who present one or more of these symptoms after contact with floods, floods or mud should seek care in a Basic Health Unit (UBS) and report that they have been in a flooded area.

Treatment is carried out with antibiotics. In the most severe cases, hospitalization and intravenous administration of medications may be necessary.

How to prevent leptospirosis

In addition to avoiding contact with flood water, the Department of Health advises to maintain clean environments and reduce situations that favor the presence of rats.

Household trash should remain in closed bags and be placed for collection only at appropriate times. Yards and grounds should be free of debris or objects that could provide shelter for rodents.

Food should be stored in closed containers, while the population should consume only treated water. Water boxes also need to be kept clean and properly capped.

After contact with potentially contaminated water, the body should be sanitized with soap and water as soon as possible.