However, in those places where tests are made the disease is known to be quite common, so it is likely that it is common on the other islands where the tests are not available. Leptospirosis and dengue fever both occur in the rainy season and it may be impossible to tell which disease you have without the special blood tests. Animals pass on leptospirosis Many types of animal can harbour leptospires. However, other animals can also do this, so even if there are no rodents on your premises you can still catch leptospirosis. You can get it from urine passed by your cow or sheep, any other domestic animal, or even from toads, mongooses and other wild animals.
Dogs commonly carry leptospirosis.
They are extremely hazardous to man because of their close association with people and their insanitary habits. In particular , infants crawling on the floor or in the yard, or playing with the animals, may become infected through contact with their urine. Cats are not as frequently infected, but they are still a hazard. Leptospirosis in animals is important not only because it can be passed on to people, but because it can cause loss in animal production. In some countries leptospirosis causes heavy loss in cattle through abortion, lowered milk yields, infertility and death of newborns.