Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis, or Weils’ Disease, is a bacterial disease that is spread in the urine of infected rats, cattle, pigs and other mammals or in water, soil, or vegetation contaminated with animal urine. It is not usually spread from a sick person to a healthy person.
The infection thrives in moist soil or water and people get it through broken, grazed or cut skin, and sometimes through the linings of the mouth, nose and eyes.
High risk groups include farm workers (particularly banana and dairy), abattoir workers and people who lead an outdoor lifestyle (e.g. rafters, fishermen, campers).
In its mild form the infection can be confused with the flu. Symptoms include high fever, chills and sweating, vomiting and sever muscle pain. In its more severe form Leptospirosis can be a serious and potentially fatal infection.
It’s important that Leptospirosis is treated early with antibiotics, before it becomes serious.
Don’t let Leptospirosis get under your skin.
WASH hands before eating and smoking. Wash after contact with soil, dirty water or plants and after handling animals. Shower after being on the farm or going out bush.
COVER UP with boots and gloves if in contact with soil, water, rodents or sites where rodents have been. Protect your face from splashes of animal urine and water.
COVER all cuts or sores with waterproof dressings (tape may help to keep dressings on and keep water out).
CLEAN UP rubbish, long grass and food scraps to keep rats and mice away. Keep the workplace clean.
SEE A DOCTOR right away if you have flu like symptoms. Leptospirosis can be a life threatening illness without treatment. Speak to your veterinarian about vaccinating your livestock against Leptospirosis.
For further information see http://www.health.qld.gov.au/goodhealthintnq/topics/leptospirosis.asp.
Table of contents | Cattle crushes
Last updated 22 July 2008