Download May 2017

be
well.
MAY 2017
Leptospirosis Risk in Outdoor Activities
Leptospirosis is a disease caused by
Leptospira bacterial species. These
bacteria are carried in the urine
of infected animals. Leptospirosis
exists worldwide, but it is more
likely to be found in tropical
climates.
Symptoms
Reduce Your Risk
Symptoms may appear anywhere
from two days to four weeks after
exposure to the bacteria. When
symptoms occur, they can include
the following.
XX Wear shoes in potentially
contaminated standing water
or mud
XX Fever
XX Try to avoid going under water
or swallowing water
How People Get It
XX Headache
If a person comes into contact
with fresh water or soil which
was contaminated with bacteria
which causes leptospirosis, he/
she could be at risk for developing
the disease. The bacteria can enter
the body through the eyes, nose,
mouth, skin cuts, or and abrasions.
XX Chills
XX Muscle and/or joint pain
XX General weakness
XX Eye redness
XX Nausea or vomiting
XX Diarrhea
XX Abdominal pain
XX Cough
This Employee Benefits Bulletin is brought to you by your Human Resources Department and is
for informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment.
Always seek the advice of your doctor or other medical professional if you have questions about
any medical condition, diagnosis or treatment. Health and wellness information provided at
healthfinder.gov and cdc.gov.
XX Cover cuts and scrapes with
watertight bandages
XX Wash your hands and face with
soap and water after contact
Be sure to see a doctor as soon as
possible if you have recently been
in fresh water, wet soil, or mud
which may be contaminated by
bacteria. The doctor can provide
testing for leptospirosis and
treatment if needed.