Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira bacteria. It is commonly spread through contact with water or soil contaminated with urine from infected animals, especially rats.
Common symptoms
Symptoms can appear about 2–30 days after exposure and may include:
• Sudden fever and chills
• Severe headache
• Muscle aches, especially in the calves and lower back
• Red eyes
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Severe leptospirosis
In some people, the infection can become serious and affect the kidneys, liver, lungs, or brain. Warning signs include:
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Very little or no urine
• Difficulty breathing
• Confusion or extreme weakness
• Bleeding
Seek medical care promptly if you develop fever or other symptoms after wading/swimming in floodwater, walking through contaminated water, or having contact with potentially infected animals. Early treatment with appropriate antibiotics can reduce complications.
Prevention
• Avoid swimming or wading in potentially contaminated floodwater.
• Wear boots and protective clothing when exposure is unavoidable.
• Cover cuts and wounds with waterproof dressings.
• Wash hands and body thoroughly after possible exposure.
• Control rats and other rodents around homes and workplaces.