#Leptospirosis spreading on rainy days.

LEPTOSPIROSIS

Bacterial infection transmitted by many animals, such as rodents and other vermin. Waste products (e.g. urine and feces) of an infected animal, especially rats, contaminate the soil, water and vegetation.

HOW DO YOU GET IT?

Ingesting contaminated food or water or when broken skin or open wounds and mucous membrane (eyes, nose, sinuses, mouth) come in contact with contaminated water (usually flood water) or soil (Incubation period of bacteria is 7-10 days)

SIGN / SYMPTOMS

•  Fever
•  Muscle pain
•  Headache
•  Calf-muscle pain and reddish eyes

Severe cases:

Liver / brain involvement or kidney failure

• Yellowish body discoloration
•  Dark-colored urine
•  Light stools
•  Low urine output
•  Severe headache

TREATMENT

•  Take antibiotics duly prescribed by a physician
•  EARLY CONSULTATION: Early recognition & treatment with 2 days of illness prevents complications

PREVENTION

•  Avoid swimming or wading in flood water
•  Use boots and gloves
•  Drain potentially contaminated water
•  Control rodents in the household (rat traps or rat poison)
•  Maintain cleanliness in the house

source: doh.gov.ph , healthpromo.doh.gov.ph