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New York City Sees Rise In Leptospirosis Cases As It Battles Rat Problem: Know More About The Illness

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease affecting humans and animals. It is caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospira.

Written by Prerna Mittra | Updated : April 19, 2024 10:01 PM IST

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Rise In Leptospirosis Cases

The city of New York is battling rats that is leading to a rise in leptospirosis cases. According to news reports, mayor Eric Adams said earlier this week that the city is 'working to address' the rise in the bacterial illness that is caused by rat urine. "We realise not only are rodents unsightly and can traumatise your day, but there are real health-related crises that are attached. They are attached to the issue of rats. It's a real problem," he was quoted as saying. The mayor added that plastic bags are a major factor for the rodent problem. "We're running rats out of our town. You can't do it if you leave plastic bags on the streets. That's what I tell residents. Plastic bags mean rodents. Get the plastic bags off our streets, you will have a major dent in the rat mitigation problem."

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What Is Leptospirosis?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), leptospirosis is a bacterial disease affecting humans and animals. It is caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospira. In humans, it can cause a wide range of symptoms, some of which may be mistaken for other diseases. It is a serious disease, as without treatment, leptospirosis can lead to kidney damage, meningitis, liver failure, respiratory distress, and even death. Also Read - Deadly Leptospirosis On the Rise: High Fever, Body Aches And Other Warning Symptoms To Look Out For

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How Does Leptospirosis Spread?

The bacteria that cause leptospirosis spreads through the urine of infected animals, which can get into water or soil and survive there for weeks or months. Many different kinds of animals carry the bacterium; these include cattle, pigs, horses, dogs, rodents, wild animals.

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Leptospirosis Exposure In Humans

Leptospirosis is most common in temperate or tropical climates, and is an occupational hazard for many people who work outdoors or with animals. People who are most at risk include: farmers, mine workers, sewer workers, slaughterhouse workers, veterinarians and animal caretakers, fish workers, dairy farmers, military personnel, the CDC states.

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Leptospirosis Prevention In Humans

The risk of leptospirosis can be mitigated by not swimming or wading in dirty water that may be contaminated with animal urine. One should also eliminate contact with 'potentially-infected animals'. If one has to step out, they must wear protective clothing or footwear to prevent exposure to contaminated water. Also Read - Heavy Rainfall May Increase Leptospirosis Risk In Mumbai, Advisory Issued

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Treatment

According to the CDC, leptospirosis is treated with antibiotics, which is given early in the course of the disease. Intravenous antibiotics are required for persons with more severe symptoms.