Leptospira is back
Vets warn that they are documenting the re-emergence of the dangerous bacterium, Leptospira, which can spread from dogs to humans and can cause kidney disease in both.
This was brought under control in 1970, but a new strain has appeared that is transmitted by raccoons and spreading in urban (and rural) areas. Dogs will show symptoms including lethargy, vomiting, acute kidney failure and death.
There are vaccines that can be given to dogs to prevent the disease. Pet owners should not leave food or water bowls outside where they can be raided by raccoons. The bacteria can be transferred to people through pets.
People become sick 2 days to 4 weeks after exposure and the illness begins with flu like symptoms. Leptospirosis can reemerge in a second and more severe stage called Weil's disease, when a person may have kidney or liver failure or meningitis. The bacteria can be diagnosed with a blood test and treated with antibiotics.
More http://www.cpvh.com/Articles/88.html
word to the wise.
Vets warn that they are documenting the re-emergence of the dangerous bacterium, Leptospira, which can spread from dogs to humans and can cause kidney disease in both.
This was brought under control in 1970, but a new strain has appeared that is transmitted by raccoons and spreading in urban (and rural) areas. Dogs will show symptoms including lethargy, vomiting, acute kidney failure and death.
There are vaccines that can be given to dogs to prevent the disease. Pet owners should not leave food or water bowls outside where they can be raided by raccoons. The bacteria can be transferred to people through pets.
People become sick 2 days to 4 weeks after exposure and the illness begins with flu like symptoms. Leptospirosis can reemerge in a second and more severe stage called Weil's disease, when a person may have kidney or liver failure or meningitis. The bacteria can be diagnosed with a blood test and treated with antibiotics.
More http://www.cpvh.com/Articles/88.html
word to the wise.
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