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Leptospirosis in Nicaragua
Friday 16-Nov-2007
Flooding in Managua and the surrounding areas has resulted in an outbreak of leptospirosis. This is a serious bacterial disease causing early symptoms of fever and muscle aches similar to early malaria, dengue or typhoid fevers but progressing to liver and kidney failure. The germ is carried by animals, and water and soil become infected by animal urine. Humans acquire the infection through swallowing contaminated water or food but also significantly through skin surface contact. Thus it is a well-documented problem in flooded areas throughout the world (including Australia).
Treatment with antibiotics is effective if caught in the early stages.
To reduce the risk of getting sick with leptospirosis and other diseases, all persons should minimize contact with potentially contaminated water, food, or soil. People working in flood regions should wear protective clothing and cover cuts and abrasions with waterproof bandages. Travellers are reminded to avoid swimming or wading in lakes, ponds, rivers, and other sources of freshwater, especially water that might be contaminated with animal urine. If you are likely to be spending a lot of time working in a flooded area it is worthwhile talking with your doctor about taking antibiotics preventively.
We recommend that you consult one of our clinics as soon
as your itinerary is known so that a program of vaccination can be planned.
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