Thailand's health ministry warns of rat fever risk after flooding

In Bangkok and flood-affected provinces, there is still a risk of contracting leptospirosis (rat fever). Cases of the disease have not yet been identified, but standing water in flooded areas already contains bacteria. This was reported by the Ministry of Health of Thailand.

Separately, the department noted the risk for volunteers and rescuers who participate in the elimination of the consequences of the flood. During the work, they repeatedly contact pathogens that are contained in dirty water. The infection can enter the body through mucous membranes and even micro-damage to the skin.

Leptospirosis is transmitted to humans mainly from rats - bacteria are excreted in the urine of animals and enter the water. The first symptoms of infection are high fever and muscle pain. According to the Thai Ministry of Health, since the beginning of 2026, 3,303 cases of leptospirosis have been registered, of which 46 are fatal.

Floods in Thailand caused by seasonal rains in mid-September affected more than 2.6 million people. About 40 people died. A disaster regime was imposed in Bangkok and the rest of the country. At the moment, the water level in the capital and nearby areas has decreased, but some provinces remain flooded.