Health authorities in Quintana Roo continue active epidemiological surveillance of a bacterial disease known as leptospirosis, after confirming five cases in the state so far in 2026.
With the start of the rainy season, authorities urged the public to strengthen preventive measures and reduce the risk of infection.
The state health department explained that heavy rainfall and flooding promote the presence and spread of the Leptospira bacteria, which causes this infection.
Transmission mainly occurs through contact with standing water, mud, or surfaces contaminated with the urine of infected animals, particularly rats and other rodents.
The most common symptoms of the disease include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Chills
- Nausea and vomiting
However, when the infection becomes severe, it can affect vital organs such as the kidneys and liver. For this reason, health authorities recommended seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms develop.
According to data from the federal epidemiological bulletin, Veracruz ranks first nationwide in leptospirosis cases this year, with 45 confirmed infections. It is followed by Sinaloa with 26, Yucatán with 17, and Guerrero with 15.
The list also includes Jalisco with 10 cases, Oaxaca with 9, Chiapas with 7, and Quintana Roo with 5. Although Quintana Roo is among the ten states with the highest number of reported cases, its incidence remains below that of the states with the greatest number of infections.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease caused by spirochetes of the genus Leptospira. It is transmitted primarily through the urine of infected animals.
How to Prevent Leptospirosis Infection
Through various communication channels, the State Health Secretariat advised residents to avoid direct contact with flooded areas, refrain from walking barefoot in locations affected by heavy rains, and wear gloves, boots, or other protective equipment when cleaning up after flooding.
The agency also urged the public to keep yards, lots, and homes free of garbage, scrap materials, and objects that can encourage rodent infestations, since rodents are considered the primary carriers of the bacteria.
Finally, authorities emphasized the importance of reinforcing hygiene and preventive measures, especially in communities prone to flooding and standing water, in order to prevent an increase in cases during the coming months.
Source: elfinanciero
