Learn to know more about Leptospirosis disease

Deepria Khumukcham *

Leptospirosis also known as infectious jaundice is a bacterial disease caused by genus Leptospira that affects both human and animal. These bacteria can be found widespread in soil and water.

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease which means it can spread from animals to human. It is generally an endemic disease when the rice harvest season or the rainy season with high humidity but it can occur anywhere.

Dogs are more commonly infected when they swim in standing water such as ponds and reservoirs and majority of infection in people are among those which is engaged in water sports or who experience occupational exposure to wildlife or domestic animal hosts. But in cats it is rare .

Transmission:- Urine is the most important source of leptospiral contamination after acute infection. In general it is transmitted by a vector of mice ,but it can also be transmitted by pigs, goats, cats, horses, birds etc. Animals can get Leptospirosis by coming into direct contact with urine or other bodily fluids from infected animals or contaminated water sources.

The bacteria can enter the body through mucous membranes of eyes, nose or skin cut or food contaminated by infected animal urine. It can be also pass through the placenta from the mother dog to the puppies.

Signs of Leptospirosis:- The signs of Leptospirosis in dog vary. Some infected dogs don’t show any signs of illness while others develop severe illness and even death of left untreated. Signs of Leptospirosis may include high fever, nausea,vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, blood in urine, lethargy, jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), muscle weakness.

In more severe cases, animals can develop kidney failure with or without liver failure.

In dogs they can occasionally develop severe lung disease and have difficulty in breathing. Leptospirosis can cause bleeding disorders, which can lead to blood-tinged vomit, urine, stool or saliva; nosebleeds; and pinpoint red spots (which may be visible on the gums and other mucous membranes.

Leptospirosis may be suspected based on the exposure history and signs shown by the dog, but many of these signs can also be seen with other diseases so we should perform serological test.

Prevention and treatment :- The best way to prevent Leptospirosis in animals is through vaccination. Currently available vaccines effectively prevent leptospirosis and protect dogs for at least 12 months. Annual vaccination is recommended for atrisk dogs

It is also important to keep your animal’s living area clean and free of standing water , and to avoid contact with wild animals that maybe carriers of the disease.

Treatment typically involves a course of antibiotics to kill the bacteria as well as supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications. Some precautions to be taken if your dog is diagnosed with the disease are-

1) Administer antibiotics as prescribed by your veterinarian;
2) Avoid contact with your dog’s urine;
3) If your dog urinates in your home, quickly clean the area with a household disinfectant and wear gloves to avoid skin contact with the urine;
4) Encourage your dog to urinate away from standing water or areas where people or other animals will have access;
5) Wash your hands properly after handling your pet.