Leptospirosis is a rare bacterial infection caused by contact with animal urine-contaminated water or soil. Symptoms can mimic flu-like symptoms and may progress to more severe complications. Diagnosis is made through blood and urine tests, and treatment involves high-dose antibiotics.
Leptospirosis is a type of bacterial infection. The infection is quite rare and can make a person very ill. Leptospirosis is caused by a spirochete bacterium known as leptospira. This bacterial infection can be contagious and spread easily. Symptoms of leptospirosis can take anywhere from several days to multiple weeks to manifest in a person with the condition.
Generally, leptospirosis is transmitted by animals. Animals, most commonly wild animals, such as raccoons, foxes, rats and skunks pass the bacteria that cause leptospirosis in their urine. If a human comes in contact with water or soil contaminated with this urine, the person can develop the infection. For example, if an individual touches contaminated soil or water and then touches their mouth, nose, or eyes, that person may be exposed to the infectious bacteria. Additionally, drinking contaminated water or eating vegetation grown in contaminated soil can also cause exposure.
Although people living in any area can get leptospirosis, it is more common among individuals living in tropical areas where rainfall is very frequent. This infection is more common in these areas because the bacteria causing the infection can survive for long periods of time in wet soils and bodies of water. Also, some recreational activities and occupations can increase your chances of becoming infected. Individuals who swim in fresh water or kayak and canoe as recreational activities may be more at risk. Since the infection is mostly spread from animals, veterinarians and farmers may also be more susceptible to infection.
Leptospirosis symptoms can occur as soon as or up to a month after being infected with the bacteria. Often, leptospirosis symptoms can mimic flu-like symptoms. A person may complain of chills, fever, diarrhea, vomiting, and headaches. Some people can develop a very dry cough. Eye pain and body aches may also be experienced.
Although not as common, it is possible to hear abnormal sounds in the lungs in a person with this infection. This symptom can only be detected during a physical exam. An individual with leptospirosis may also have stiffness and tenderness in their muscles. You may also experience an enlarged liver or spleen, although this isn’t particularly common.
More severe leptospirosis symptoms may occur as the infection progresses. Severe symptoms can include severe abdominal pain, joint pain, and bone pain. Some people may develop a rash, swollen lymph glands, and a sore throat. A stiff neck can be a symptom as the disease worsens. Meningitis and inflammation of the nerves in the brain and eyes are among the more serious complications.
A blood test and urine or urine test will usually be done to diagnose leptospirosis. In most cases, antibiotics are used to treat the symptoms of leptospirosis. Antibiotics are often prescribed in very high doses to combat an infection of this nature. Hospitalization may be required for seriously ill individuals with the infection. If hospitalization is required, intravenous antibiotic treatment will begin.
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