June 26, 2008

Surface water poses health threat to pets and their owners

Leptospirosis, which originates from a bacterial infection in animals, can infect both humans and animals. It is traced to animal urine found in soil, puddles, creeks and larger bodies of water, says Steve Thompson of Purdue's School of Veterinary Medicine. Leptospirosis can be traced to contact with blood or urine, and pets can be exposed by swimming or walking through water.

The disease can lead to severe kidney and liver damage and is often spread by raccoons, opossums, skunks or deer. Rodents, foxes and coyotes also carry the bacteria.

While the incidence of leptospirosis is low nationally and rarely is fatal, the number of urban cases is on the rise.

Leptospirosis is caused by a bacteria that can be treated with antibiotics. It is not preventable, but the incidence can be reduced by wearing protective clothing or footwear. Wading or swimming in water that could contain animal urine should be avoided.

"There is a vaccine for cattle, dogs and pigs. Horses and cats don't seem to get it as often," Thompson says.

Leptospirosis can be caused by roundworm eggs carrying the bacteria. The eggs can hatch in common outdoor areas, such as compost piles, and rodents also carry the bacteria. In the United States, Hawaii has the highest concentration of cases.

Once exposed to the bacteria, the disease can manifest itself internally in 5-14 days, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In humans, the disease causes flulike symptoms. In companion animals and wildlife, common symptoms are vomiting, abdominal pain, depression and loss of appetite.

Writer: Dave Kitchell, (765) 496-9711, dkitchell@purdue.edu

Source: Steve Thompson, (765) 494-1107, drt@purdue.edu

Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu

Note to Journalists: Leptospirosis is pronounced LEAPT-O-spa-row-sus

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