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Leptospirosis
What is leptospirosis?
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects humans and animals. It is caused by the bacterium, Leptospira. In humans, it causes a wide range of symptoms, and some infected persons may have no symptoms at all.
Who gets leptospirosis ?
Individuals at risk for leptospirosis include people who work outdoors or with animals, particularly farmers, sewer workers, veterinarians, fish workers, dairy farmers or military personnel. Also, leptospirosis is a recreational hazard for campers or those who participate in outdoor sports in contaminated areas.
How do people get leptospirosis?
Humans become infected through ingestion of water, food or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals, including cattle, pigs, horses, dogs, rodents and wild animals.
Where is leptospirosis found?
Leptospirosis occurs worldwide but is most common in temperate or tropical climates.
What are the symptoms of leptospirosis?
Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, chills, muscle aches, and vomiting and may include jaundice (yellow skin and eyes), red eyes, abdominal pain, diarrhea or a rash. Kidney damage, meningitis (inflammation of the membrane around the brain and spinal cord), liver failure and respiratory distress may develop if the disease is not treated.
How soon do symptoms occur?
Symptoms occur 2 days to four weeks after exposure.
How is leptospirosis diagnosed?
Diagnosis is confirmed by the detection of antibodies in blood or by identifying the organism in blood or spinal canal fluid.
What is the treatment for leptospirosis?
Leptospirosis is treated with antibiotics. Persons with symptoms suggestive of leptospirosis should contact a health care provider.
How long is an infected person infectious to others?
The disease is not known to be spread from person to person.
How can leptospirosis be prevented?
The risk of acquiring leptospirosis can be greatly reduced by not swimming or wading in water that might be contaminated with animal urine. Protective clothing or footwear should be worn by those exposed to contaminated water or soil because of their job or recreational activities.
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