Monsoon Fevers in Thane: Dengue, Malaria and Leptospirosis — When to See a Doctor

From June to October, a large share of OPD visits in Thane are for fever. Most are viral and settle in a few days, but the monsoon also brings infections that need timely testing and treatment. Knowing the warning signs helps you decide when home care is enough and when to see a doctor.

Dengue

Spread by the Aedes mosquito, which breeds in clean, stagnant water — flower pots, coolers, discarded tyres and water tanks — and bites mainly during the day.

• Sudden high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, body and joint pain, sometimes a rash.
• The riskiest phase is often when the fever comes down (around days 3–7). This is when warning signs can appear.
• Use paracetamol for fever. Avoid ibuprofen, aspirin and similar painkillers, which can increase bleeding risk.

Malaria

Spread by the Anopheles mosquito. Fever often comes with chills and shivering, followed by sweating, and may come and go. Malaria is confirmed with a blood smear or rapid test and needs prescribed treatment — it should never be left untreated.

Leptospirosis

A bacterial infection spread through water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals, especially rats. The risk rises after wading through flood water, particularly with cuts or wounds on the feet.

• Fever, headache, severe muscle pain (especially in the calves), red eyes.
• Can affect the kidneys and liver if not treated early.
• If you have walked through flood water and develop fever, tell your doctor — early antibiotics matter.

Warning Signs: See a Doctor Promptly

• Fever lasting more than 2–3 days, or very high fever not settling with paracetamol
• Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting
• Bleeding from gums or nose, black stools, or red spots on the skin
• Unusual drowsiness, confusion or restlessness
• Breathlessness, yellow eyes, or passing very little urine
• Fever in an elderly person, a pregnant woman, or someone with diabetes, kidney or heart disease

Simple Prevention

• Empty or cover any stored water around the house every week.
• Use mosquito repellent, nets and full-sleeved clothing.
• Avoid walking through flood water; if unavoidable, wear boots and wash your feet well afterwards.
• Drink boiled or filtered water during the rains.

This article is for general information and awareness only. It is not a substitute for a consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified doctor. Please do not start, stop or change any medicine without medical advice. In an emergency, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital.