Leptospirosis is a potentially serious illness caused by the bacteria, Leptospira , which can affect both animals and people.
Leptospirosis is present worldwide, and is more common in tropical countries with heavy rainfall.
In the United States, 100-200 human cases of leptospirosis are identified each year. Infected animals can pass Leptospira bacteria in their urine for a long period of time and not show signs of sickness. Leptospira bacteria can enter the body through broken skin, or the eyes, nose, or mouth. Leptospirosis is transmitted by contact with fresh water, mud, or vegetation contaminated by the urine or tissues of infected animals. It is also spread by direct contact with urine or tissues from an infected animal.