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CHCC warns vs leptospirosis
The Commonwealth Healthcare Corp. has recently received a report of a possible leptospirosis case.
Leptospirosis is preventable and precautions should be taken when swimming, stepping, or coming in contact with standing water that could be contaminated with animal urine or feces.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease. The bacteria that causes leptospirosis are spread through the urine of infected animals, which can get into water or soil and can survive there for weeks to months. Many animals can spread leptospirosis, including but not limited to pigs, dogs, goats, cattle, horses, rats, and other rodents.
Common symptoms of leptospirosis include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), skin rash, and red eyes
Steps for prevention
Do not walk or swim in water that might be contaminated with animal urine.
Eliminate contact with potentially infected animals.
Protective clothing or footwear should be worn by those exposed to contaminated water or soil because of their job or recreational activities.
If you suspect leptospirosis
Contact your primary care provider or visit the Commonwealth Health Center.
If your provider suspects you have contracted leptospirosis, they will likely give you antibiotics.
Treatment is most effective when patients start as soon as possible and adhere to the treatment plan through completion. (PR)
