Beware! Dangerous Diseases Associated with Flooded Water

Recently, continuous rainfall, especially in Bangkok and its metropolitan area, has caused some areas to experience drainage delays or temporary flooding. Daily travel may make avoiding contact with or wading through water difficult. Therefore, the concern is not just travel inconvenience but also that standing water may be contaminated with dirt, pathogens, and animal urine washed into it, increasing health risks, particularly leptospirosis and athlete’s foot—two diseases commonly found during heavy rains and prolonged water exposure.

Wading through floodwaters requires caution against leptospirosis.

Leptospirosis is caused by the bacterium Leptospira, which is found in the urine of animals, especially rodents, and other species. When rainwater or floodwater is contaminated with this bacterium, those wading through the water—especially if they have wounds, abrasions, or softened skin from prolonged water exposure—may have the bacteria enter their bodies through these areas.

Therefore, even short periods of wading require monitoring for any abnormal symptoms after exposure, particularly if the following signs appear.

Symptoms of leptospirosis

• include high fever and chills.
• Muscle aches, especially in the calves and back.
• Red eyes and headaches.
• In severe cases, complications such as kidney failure, liver failure, and potentially life-threatening conditions may occur.

If you have a history of wading through or contacting floodwaters and then develop a high fever with unusual muscle pain, do not dismiss it as just from rain exposure; see a doctor promptly for proper evaluation.

Wet feet and prolonged water exposure risk "athlete’s foot."

Another common problem during heavy rain and flooding is athlete’s foot, especially among those who walk through water or wear wet shoes and socks for extended periods. Moisture softens and irritates the skin on the feet, making it susceptible to fungal infections. Dirty water can cause skin to break down and increase the risk of secondary infections.

Symptoms of athlete’s foot

• include peeling, itching, and skin irritation.
• Swollen, red feet or sores.
• If infection develops, swelling and increased pain may occur.

If feet remain wet or moist for long periods, symptoms can worsen; therefore, immediately clean and dry feet after water exposure.

How to reduce health risks when wading through water

On heavy rain or flood days, avoiding flooded areas is the best prevention. If you must travel or wade through water, take extra precautions as follows.

• Avoid walking through floodwaters; if necessary, wear boots or shoes that prevent direct water contact.
• If you have wounds or abrasions, avoid water exposure and cover them securely with waterproof materials.
• After exposure, promptly wash feet and any skin that touched water with clean water and soap.
• Thoroughly dry feet and between toes; do not allow feet to remain damp for extended periods.
• Change out of wet clothes, shoes, and socks as soon as possible.
• Regularly check for wounds, redness, itching, swelling, or any unusual skin conditions.
• If you develop a high fever, severe muscle aches, swollen or red wounds, or abnormal symptoms after water exposure, seek medical attention.

After rain and water exposure, monitor your body closely.

During periods of heavy rain and possible flooding, wading through water may be unavoidable for many. The key is to minimize contact with dirty water, maintain cleanliness afterward, and watch for abnormal symptoms. Upon returning home, take a shower, clean your body and feet, change wet clothes, and keep yourself dry and warm. Those with wounds should regularly inspect the affected areas, as early symptoms may resemble common illnesses. If you experience high fever, headache, or distinct muscle pain—especially in the calves—or have swollen, red, or painful foot wounds that do not improve after water exposure, promptly consult a doctor for proper assessment and treatment to reduce risks of complications.

Information provided by: Internal Medicine Clinic, Phyathai Nawamin Hospital