Many areas throughout Southern California have seen an increase in cases of Leptospirosis. But what is this infection and how can we protect our families, the two and four-legged members, from this pathogen?
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects humans and animals caused by the bacteria Leptospira. The bacteria can be carried through bodily fluids (such as urine, except saliva) from infected animals. The pathogen can survive in contaminated soil and water for weeks to months. The many types of domestic and wild animals that could be infected with Leptospirosis are cattle, pigs, horses, dogs, rodents, and many more. Not all infected animals and humans exhibit symptoms. The most common form of transmission is through contaminated water.