Educate people on this health threat

THE post-mortem on Mohamad Thaqif Amin Mohd Gadaffi, 11, who died on April 26 after being allegedly abused at a tahfiz school in Johor, has indicated that the cause of death was due to leptospirosis infection, a disease known to be brought about by rat urine.

It is important for the authorities, namely the police and health departments, to investigate the matter, especially how the disease could have been transmitted to the victim.

Leptospirosis is a dangerous disease and a public health problem worldwide.

In Malaysia, an increasing number of reported cases and outbreaks have resulted in deaths.

There have been reported cases involving people who were in- fected after visiting recreational areas.

A single gulp of water from a contaminated river, pond or waterfall, or coming into contact with contaminated soil or swimming in contaminated water spots with open wounds can expose people to the fatal disease.

Medical studies have shown that leptospirosis in humans can cause a range of symptoms. But, some infected people may show no symptoms, rendering early treatment difficult.

Leptospirosis is said to begin with a fever accompanied by chills, intense headache, severe abdominal and muscle ache, red eyes and, occasionally, a rash.

The classic form of severe leptospirosis is characterised by liver