Leptospirosis season: the Ministry of Health told how to protect yourself
Kyiv • UNN
In summer, the risk of contracting leptospirosis, a potentially fatal infection transmitted from animals to humans through contaminated water or contact with infected animals, increases in Ukraine, so the Ministry of Health advises taking precautions: avoid contaminated water bodies, vaccinate pets, wear protective equipment, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear.
In summer, the incidence of leptospirosis increases in Ukraine. This is due to the fact that people spend more time near water bodies in summer. The disease can be fatal if you don't seek medical help in a timely manner. The Ministry of Health explained how to protect yourself from the infection, UNN writes.
According to the Ministry of Health, summer is not only a time for recreation near water, but also an increased risk of leptospirosis.
Leptospirosis is an infection that is transmitted from animals to humans. The bacterium enters the human body through cracks, cuts, or wounds in the skin, as well as through the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
The disease can reportedly lead to kidney damage, liver damage, meningitis, and even death if not treated promptly.
Leptospirosis is not transmitted from person to person.
According to the Ministry of Health, 97 cases of this dangerous infection were reported in the first five months of 2024, with the highest number in Chernihiv (28), Zakarpattia (19), and Mykolaiv (12) regions. In other regions, 0-7 cases were recorded
The most common mechanism of transmission is contact, through swimming and fishing in contaminated water bodies, haying in wet areas, and gardening, caring for sick and infected animals.
The Ministry of Health told how to protect yourself from leptospirosis:
- Avoid contaminated water bodies: do not swim or fish in water bodies that may be in contact with infected animals, such as livestock watering holes;
- Vaccinate animals: domestic and farm animals should be vaccinated against leptospirosis;
- Avoid contact with sick animals;
- Wear gloves and closed shoes: use personal protective equipment when working in the garden and picking berries in the forest;
- Eliminate rodents at home: carry out disinfestation measures in your home and protect water and food from contamination by rodent excretions;
- Heat treat products of animal origin.
The Ministry of Health emphasizes that if you notice symptoms and have had contact with potentially contaminated water or animals, seek medical attention immediately - you don't need to call 103 or 112. Treatment should be started immediately, as the disease progresses rapidly.
