LEPTOSPIROSIS (WEIL’S DISEASE)

Contents

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Two types of leptospirosis infection can affect workers. Weil’s disease is a serious and sometimes fatal infection that is transmitted to humans by contacto with urine from infected rats. The Hardjo form of leptospirosis is trasmitted from cattle.

HAZARDS

The bacteria can get into the body through cuts and scratches and through the lining of the mouth, throat and eyes
The lacteria can exist in infected urine or in areas such as in sewers, ditches, ponds and slow flowing rivers
Poor welfare facilities
Poor hygiene standards

HEALTH AND SAFETY POINTS

How can infection be prevented :

Get rid of rats
Keep food waste in suitable container
Wear adequate PPE waterproof gloves where there is a risk of infection, eg in sewers
Cover all cuts and broken skin before and during work with waterproof plasters
Wear the correct protective clothing for the job
Always wash hands before eating, drinking or smoking

Wate are the Symptoms:

Both diseases, Weils and Hardjo start with a flu like illness with a persistent and severe headache

What to do

Go to you Doctor ASAP
Explain your work or where and what you have been doing. Infection can take place out side of work, eg persons fishing in ponds, lakes and rivers where there are rats
If your employer has issued you a leptospirosis card, give it to your doctor
There are relatively few cases per year (average 6 to 10) so that some Doctors may have little or no knowledge of the disease
If is confirmed that you have leptospirosis you must inform you employer who is required to report it to the government authorizations

QUSTION TIME

What is the source of infections?
How does the infection get into your body?
What are the symptoms?
What do you do if you have the symptoms?

SAFETY REMINDER

There are only a few cases each year however if you do suffer any of the symptoms see your doctor immediately the sooner treatment is given the better.