Antibiotic prophylaxis of leptospirosis may be achieved by administration of doxycycline depending on the risk category of exposure.
LOW RISK will be defined as those individuals with a single history of wading in flood or contaminated water and absence of wounds, cuts or open lesions of the skin.
Doxycycline (hydrochloride or hyclate) at 2 capsules of 100 mg single dose within 24 to 72 hours
MODERATE RISK will be defined as those individuals with a single history of wading in flood or contaminated water and the presence of wounds, cuts, or open lesions of the skin, OR accidental ingestion of contaminated water.
Doxycycline (hydrochloride or hyclate) at
2 capsules of 100 mg OD for 3-5 days to be started immediately within
24 to 72 hours from exposure.
HIGH RISK will be defined as those individuals with continuous exposure (defined as those having more than a single exposure or several days such as those residing in flooded areas, rescuers and relief workers) of wading in flood or contaminated water with or without wounds, cuts or open lesions of the skin. Swimming in flooded water and ingestion of contaminated water are also
considered high risk.
Doxycycline (hydrochloride or hyclate) at 2 capsules of 100 mg once weekly until the end of exposure
Doxycycline is CONTRAINDICATED (meaning, not allowed) in children,
pregnancy, breastfeeding moms, or known allergy to
Doxycycline/Tetracycline/Minocycline. Take with food or after meal.
