What is it?

Weils disease warning!

Weil’s disease or leptospirosis is a rare but serious bacterial disease which causes liver and kidney damage and, in 5 – 10% of cases, can be fatal. It is spread in water and soil contaminated by the urine of rats, voles, and other rodents, as well as cattle, foxes and other wild animals. The disease is especially associated with urban waterways and slowmoving rivers, and there are higher levels of risk after heavy rain, when drains and other areas inhabited by rats have been flushed out. The bacteria can survive in water or wet environments for up to 45 days after leaving their host animal. Humans become infected when their cuts or mucous membranes (ears, eyes, mouth, nose) are exposed to contaminated water or soil. (Information from Thames21)

Preventing the Disease

Cover all cuts and abrasions on your hands and feet with a waterproof plaster.
Wear waterproof footwear.
Never touch your eyes, ears, mouth etc without washing your hands first.
Wash hands throughly before eating, handling food or smoking.
Wash all body areas that come into contact with river water.
Wear gloves and use the antiseptic handrub provided by the TDP team.

Symptoms

Raised temperature and/or ‘chill’ feeling.
Pain in joints or muscles, often more pronounce in the calf muscles.
General feeling of an influenza-like illness

If you suffer from any of the above symptoms after a possible exposure, see a doctor immediately. tell your GP that you may have been exposed to contaminated water and mention Weil’s disease. The disease is confirmed by an ELISA blood test and is easily treatable with antibiotics in its early stages.

The incubation period varies from 2 – 21 days.

If you have any doubts SEE YOUR DOCTOR