Infectious diseases caused by leptospires may produce mild disorders, similar to influenza, or may be severe or fatal in the form referred to as Weil's disease. Transmission usually involves contact with infected urine, blood or tissues from an infected animal. Accordingly, veterinarians, slaughterhouse workers, sewage workers and agricultural workers are all at an increased risk of contracting this disorder. Recreation water users are also at some risk.
Causes of Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis are infections from spirochetes that normally live in animals, fish and birds.
Signs and Symptoms of Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis usually produces mild symptoms. These include fever, chills, headache, nausea and vomiting. In addition, muscle pains, low back pain, abdominal discomfort, jaundice and rash may occur. In Weil's disease, the disorder is much more severe. It is associated with severe jaundice. There is excessive bleeding and easy bruising. Fever and chills occur. Abdominal pain ad swelling occurs, often with right upper abdominal tenderness. Decreased urine output occurs with shortness of breath, cough, chest pain and episodes of coughing up blood.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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