Weil’s disease is caused by the bacteria Leptospira interrogans found in water contaminated with rodent urine. It can enter the body through the mouth, nose, or open wound. Precautions include avoiding contaminated water and areas frequented by rodents, wearing protective gear, and frequent hand washing.
Weil’s disease, also known as leptospirosis or swamp fever, is a relatively rare disease. It is directly caused by the infection that occurs due to a type of bacteria called Leptospira interrogans. The disease can arise if the bacteria enter the body through the mouth, nose or an open wound. This can occur when a person drinks, eats, or plays in or around contaminated water. Since the bacteria comes from rodent animals, such as rats and raccoons, the areas where these creatures frequent can also be contaminated with the bacteria.
The only direct cause of Weil’s disease is infection with the bacterium Leptospira interrogans. It is typically found in water that has been contaminated with the urine of rodents, such as rats, squirrels, raccoons and mice. Most people become infected when they drink or swim in contaminated water. The bacteria can enter many areas of the body, such as an open skin wound, the mouth, the nose and even the vagina.
Although the chance of getting Weil’s disease is lower in the United States and Europe than in other countries, such as India, it is still possible. City ponds and standing water easily harbor bacteria, as they can be frequently visited by city mice. Also, slow-moving canals or rivers are often contaminated. If the water is near an agricultural or agricultural area, it can increase the chances of contamination as well. Weil’s disease is often contracted by people who work in contaminated agricultural water, such as rice paddies.
Because swimming or playing in contaminated water can cause Weil’s disease, it’s important to take precautions to prevent it. For example, a person fishing should wear rubber gloves, waterproof clothing, and goggles to prevent contaminated water from splashing into their mouth, eyes, nose, or open wounds. Also, people should think twice before swimming in a pond, canal, or other water source. Generally, chlorine kills the bacteria that cause Weil’s disease, so swimming in a treated pool is a safer option.
Because the bacteria that cause Weil’s disease is excreted in rodent urine, it’s best to stay away from areas frequented by rodents. For example, if a person comes across a nest of rats, it’s usually best to let professionals handle the infestation or at least put on protective gear. Frequent hand washing is also important, as is researching a body of water before swimming or playing in it.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
