leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is an infectious disease caused by a particular type of bacteria called a spirochete. Leptospirosis can be transmitted by many animals such as rats, skunks, opossums, raccoons, foxes, and other vermin. It is transmitted though contact with infected soil or water. The soil or water is contaminated with the waste products of an infected animal. People contract the disease by either ingesting contaminated food or water or by broken skin and mucous membrane (eyes, nose, sinuses, mouth) contact with the contaminated water or soil.

How is leptospirosis treated?

The treatment of leptospirosis involves high doses of antibiotics. Antibiotic treatment (doxycycline, penicillin) is most effective when initiated early in the course of the illness. Severely ill patients may need hospitalization for IV fluid and antibiotic treatment. Severe liver and kidney manifestations of the infection may require intensive medical care and sometimes dialysis treatment. However, even in severe cases, liver and kidney function often does return after recovery from the illness.

Mortality rates for severe illness with leptospirosis can range from 5%-40%, depending on the severity of organ dysfunction and the patient's general health prior to infection. Most previously healthy patients will make a full recovery.

The diagnosis of leptospirosis is made by culture of the bacterial organism Leptospira from infected blood, spinal fluid, or urine. However, many doctors must rely upon rising Leptospira antibody levels in the blood in order to make the diagnosis, as the technique required to perform the culturing is delicate and difficult.

How does Leptospirosis spread?

People get leptospirosis by contact with water, damp soil or vegetation contaminated by the urine of infected animals. Leptospirosis bacteria can enter the body through broken skin and mucous membrane.

What causes leptospirosis ?

It is caused by leptospira  interrogans, a corkscrew-shaped bacterium. Where  is the bacteria found?

Leptospirosis –causing bacteria is common, especially in tropical countries wit heavy rainfall, or in areas that have stagnant water. Once in the bloodstream, the bacteria can reach all parts of the body.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms include fever, headache, chills, nausea and vomiting, eye inflammation and muscle aches. in severe cases, it can result in liver damage and jaundice, kidney failure and internal bleeding. Symptoms usually begin about 10 days after infection.

Who is at risk?

Those in freshwater recreational activities in areas where leptospirosis is common. Farmers, sewer workers and those whose jobs involve contact with water or mud contaminated by animal urine. Veterinarians and others in contact with leptospirosis affected animals.

What is the treatment?

Leptospirosis is treatable with antibiotics. Treatment should be started as soon as possible. Severely ill persons might need intravenous antibiotic treatment and other supportive care. Leptospirosis is treated with drugs like Doxycycline, Ampicillin and Amoxycillin.

How can it be prevented?

Minimize contact with water, mud and vegetation that might be contaminated with the urine of infected animals, especially rodents. Wear protective clothing or water proof boots when participating in activities that might result in contact with contaminated water.