Encampment in Berkeley, California.
Leptospirosis, caused by the Leptospira bacterium, is a zoonotic disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans.
The disease has been confirmed in multiple rats and dogs at a homeless encampment along Harrison Avenue near 8th Street in West Berkeley, according to an alert from the Berkeley Department of Public Health.
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Rats and their urine are the main vectors of the disease, officials warned. It can also be transmitted through contaminated soil or water exposed to the urine of infected animals.
“People and animals who touch or drink contaminated water or mud can potentially become infected. exposed to bacteriaThe disease is transmitted to people and animals when contaminated water comes into contact with mucous membranes, such as the eyes, nose, or mouth, or cuts on the skin. The disease is not spread through the air or by coughing or sneezing. ”
The danger increases after heavy rain, so floods and hurricanesThis is due to increased contact with infected water and soil.
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Leptospirosis usually causes flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, and body aches. vomiting or nauseaaccording to the CDC. Infected people may also experience yellowing of the eyes and skin, rash, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
Without antibiotic treatment, it can lead to serious illnesses such as kidney damage, liver failure, and meningitis. difficulty breathing. In rare cases, health officials say it can be fatal to people and animals.
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According to the CDC, illness usually begins between 2 and 30 days after exposure to the bacteria. You usually begin to feel better within a few days or weeks, but without treatment recovery can take months.
“Existence of Rats that carry leptospirosis “The area near the Harrison Street encampment in an area bounded by San Pablo Avenue, Gilman Street, Codornices Creek, and railroad tracks has become unsafe as a human encampment environment,” the warning said.
The city has designated public health hazard zones, and red zones indicate the most dangerous areas within the camp. The surrounding area is defined as a high but low risk yellow zone.
“City health officials strongly encourage encampment residents to move at least 1/3 mile away from defined encampment ‘red zone’ areas as soon as possible.” public health risk This is due to an infestation of rats that transmit leptospirosis in the area,” officials advised.
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Residents of the area should avoid contact with standing water and mud, wear protective clothing and Monitor yourself and your pets For signs of illness.
Anyone who has been infected or is showing symptoms should seek immediate medical attention. doctor’s examination.
