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Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has been diagnosed with leptospirosis, a bacterial infection spread through contaminated water, soil, and animal urine. The news was reported by the news agency ANI, stating that Mann was admitted to Fortis Hospital in Mohali on Wednesday for a routine checkup, where the diagnosis was made. Dr. RK Jaswal, the director and head of cardiology at the hospital, confirmed that Mann has shown significant improvement since starting antibiotic treatment and his vitals are stable.
Leptospirosis, caused by the bacteria Leptospira, can be a serious illness. It is contracted through exposure to contaminated environments, often following heavy rainfall or flooding. The disease can affect both humans and animals, and while some individuals experience no symptoms, others develop a range of ailments, including fever, chills, headaches, diarrhea, nausea, and muscle aches. In more severe cases, leptospirosis can lead to kidney failure, liver failure, meningitis, respiratory problems, and even death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that about 1 million cases occur annually worldwide, resulting in approximately 60,000 deaths.
The diagnosis of the Punjab CM has sparked public attention and concern. Former Punjab Chief Minister and Congress leader, Charanjit Singh Channi, used the situation to criticize Mann's leadership, stating, 'If a CM cannot take care of himself, how will he take care of Punjab?' This statement highlights the public's expectation of their leaders to be healthy and capable of fulfilling their duties. While Mann's illness is a personal matter, it has raised questions about the potential impact on his leadership and the state's health infrastructure. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of public health awareness, particularly regarding the dangers of leptospirosis and the need for preventative measures, such as handwashing, avoiding contaminated water, and vaccinating pets.
Source: Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann diagnosed with leptospirosis | What is this disease?