[nagdu] lepto

[JULIE PHILLIPSON]

I just saw this article and I thought it would be good to pass it on.
Veterinarians warn about Lepto in humans
August 17, 7:55 PM
Rochester Infectious Disease Examiner
Charles Simmins

AP Photo/Julie Jacobson

People get many things from their dogs, friendship, companionship, exercise, 
love. Sometimes they also get sick.

Leptospirosis
is a bacterial illness that dogs may catch through exposure to contaminated 
water, rodents and rodent feces. Lepto is a bacterial family with over 200 
varieties
that can infect mammals from rats to cattle.

In dogs, it is a
very serious illness,
potentially fatal. A vaccine exists but it only protects against two 
variants. It is treatable if caught in time. It's symptoms include 
"anorexia, vomiting,
lethargy, depression, muscle pain and sometimes diarrhea or bloody urine". 
It can cause kideny and liver damage, and death.

 New varieties have appeared in the last several years for which there is no 
vaccine. As with the appearance of any new disease, it can spread rapidly in
a region.

Humans that work with animals are the most likely to be exposed. 
Veterinarians, dairy farm workers and sewer workers top that list. With the 
new varieties,
there is
increased concern
about the potential for pet owners to catch Lepto.

Pet owners should use proper sanitary practices around sick animals. Dog 
urine is especially infectious. Gloves and boots are appropriate protection.

Sick dogs should not be walked in areas where children might come into 
contact with the dog's urine, parks, playgrounds, etc. Care should be taken 
to protect
waterways, streams and creeks, from becoming contaminated.

Lepto will make a human very ill. In humans, the symptoms are nearly the 
same as in a dog. Most patients will require hospitalization. Treatment 
includes
antibiotics and a patient may also need kidney dialysis.

Rapid veterinary care for a sick pet may save its life. Careful handling of 
animals wastes and proper disposal will help prevent the pet owner from 
becoming
ill, as well.
For more info: The
Centers for Disease Control
and the
New York State Department of Health
have information on leptospirosis. Veterinarians will also be able to 
provide information..

Julie Phillipson 
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