Leptospirosis

is a bacterial infection most commonly

transmitted by urine and semen of
infected animals in flood waters, or
muddy farms and in areas where there is
a livestock.
Many different kinds of wild and domestic
animals carry the bacterium. These can include, but are
not limited •Cattle
to:
•Pigs
•Horses
•Dogs
•Rodents
•Wild animals
What is Leptospirosis infection?
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused
by Leptospira spirochetes.

It is transmitted through ingestion of

contaminated food or water or through broken
skin or open wounds which come in contact with
the contaminated water.
What are the usual signs and symptoms of Leptospirosis?

The usual signs and symptoms include any of the

following:
✓ High fever
✓ Headache
✓ Chills
✓ Muscle aches
✓ Vomiting
✓ Jaundice (yellow skin and eyes)
✓ Red eyes
✓ Abdominal pain
✓ Diarrhea
✓ Rash

Immediately consult the nearest CHO or health facility if one

suspects the possibility of leptospirosis infection, for prompt evaluation
and management.

NEVER self-medicate with antibiotics to prevent undetected

complications such as liver or kidney failure.
How can it be prevented?
Use personal protective equipments such as boots and gloves
when work requires exposure to potentially contaminated water.
WHAT TO DO:
1. Encourage members of the household to avoid swimming or wading
in potentially contaminated waters.

2. Encourage members of the household to maintain good

environmental sanitation through regular cleaning and drainage of
potentially contaminated waters.

3. Immediately refer to the nearest facility if there are any of the

danger signs of severe leptospirosis infection:
Yellowish body discoloration
Dark-colored urine and light stools
Low urine output
Severe headache