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Leptospira Bacteria

Leptospira bacteria commonly infect animals such as rats, mice, cattle and horses.

Rats are common carriers of the Leptospira
bacteria.

Infected rats pass the bacteria in their urine, perhaps onto wet surfaces, or into water where
the bacteria can stay alive. If contaminated water comes into contact with cuts or grazes, or
is ingested, then infection may occur. Occupations at risk are those who work with potentially
infected animals (e.g. dairy farmers), or in wet areas where there may be rats (e.g. sewer
workers, water-sports instructors).

The disease leptospirosis starts with flu-like symptoms (fever, headache, and muscle pain)
and then progresses to a more serious phase involving jaundice. At this stage the disease is
causing liver damage and may be known as Weil's disease. If diagnosed early the disease is
usually treated successfully. It can prove fatal, especially if diagnosed late.

Typical controls include:

• Preventing rat infestation, by good housekeeping and pest control.
• Good personal hygiene (e.g. hand-washing).
• PPE (especially gloves).
• Covering cuts and grazes.
• Issuing workers with an "at risk" card to be shown to the worker's doctor (physician) to
allow early diagnosis.

ENSIGN| Unit IG2 – Element 7 – Chemical and Biological 56
Agents