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Fishy Metallic Smell Signals Rising Bacterial Threat After Floods

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  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2025/12/2 .. ignals-rising-bacterial-threat-after-floods.html
  Published in House and Home on Wednesday, December 24th 2025 at 23:02 GMT by The Mirror

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“Fishy” metallic smell may signal a rising bacterial threat: expert’s warning after floods

A sharp metallic, almost fish‑like scent that you notice in the air or on your lips could be a warning flag for a serious, though rare, bacterial infection. Health experts in the UK are urging the public to take note of this symptom after a sudden surge of cases linked to recent heavy‑rain flooding.

What the “fishy” metallic smell could mean

Dr Alex Carter, an infectious disease specialist at the University of Sheffield, explained that a metallic taste or smell—sometimes described as “fishy”—has been reported by a growing number of patients who have recently contracted leptospirosis. The bacteria Leptospira are shed in the urine of rodents and can contaminate standing water, soil and even the air during prolonged wet weather. When humans come into contact with infected water or soil, the bacteria can enter through skin abrasions, mucous membranes or inhalation.

“Leptospirosis is often under‑diagnosed because its early symptoms mimic other febrile illnesses,” Dr Carter said. “The metallic or fishy taste is one of the first clues that clinicians can pick up on, especially in people who have been exposed to flood‑affected environments.”

A spike after flooding

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported a 75 % increase in leptospirosis cases in the past two months, largely attributed to the unprecedented flooding that hit the south‑east of England following the “Storm Victoria” deluge. According to the agency’s latest outbreak dashboard (linked in the Mirror piece), 142 confirmed cases have been identified across nine counties, with most patients reporting fever, headache, muscle pain and, in several instances, the metallic taste.

Public Health England’s “Leptospirosis: facts & figures” page – which the article links to – details that the disease can progress to severe liver and kidney failure if not treated promptly. The agency recommends that people who develop a sudden fever, muscle aches, vomiting or jaundice after exposure to flood water seek medical attention immediately.

How to protect yourself

The Mirror article lists several practical steps to minimise infection risk:

1. Avoid standing water – whether it’s a puddle, a flooded street or a bucket left outside.
2. Wear protective clothing – rubber boots, gloves and long sleeves when you must enter potentially contaminated water.
3. Wash thoroughly – scrub skin with soap and water, especially hands, feet and any cuts or abrasions.
4. Treat water – boil or use iodine tablets for drinking, or let water sit for 24 hours so that bacteria die off.
5. Keep rodents away – secure trash cans, seal food stores and minimise rodent attractants around homes and businesses.

The article also advises keeping an eye on the UKHSA’s outbreak map (a link is provided) and staying up to date with local council advisories on flooded areas.

When to seek medical care

Dr Carter emphasises that early treatment with antibiotics—usually doxycycline or penicillin—can prevent the disease from advancing to its most severe stages. “If you notice a metallic taste or smell and have had any flood‑water exposure, call your GP or go to an urgent care centre. A simple blood test can confirm the infection and start you on the right medication,” she said.

In the Mirror piece, a link to the NHS’s “Leptospirosis” page (https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/leptospirosis/) is included, summarising the signs, symptoms and recommended care pathway for patients.

A broader public health message

The warning goes beyond a single symptom. Experts point out that many diseases can be linked to the same environmental conditions—especially post‑flood settings. In addition to leptospirosis, the UKHSA alerts communities to Norovirus, Giardia and even airborne fungal spores that may thrive in damp, mouldy conditions. The “Health protection” link in the article directs readers to a comprehensive guide on safe post‑flood behaviour.

While the metallic or fishy scent might feel like a quirky detail, Dr Carter’s warning underscores that seemingly minor signs can signal an outbreak in the making. By staying alert, following preventive measures and seeking early medical care, people can protect themselves and help curb the spread of this bacterial infection.

The Mirror article, published on 24 November 2025, cites the UKHSA’s outbreak data, NHS guidance on leptospirosis, and a personal interview with Dr Alex Carter. It also includes links to further reading on the disease’s epidemiology, symptoms, and treatment options.