These infections can be diagnosed with ova and parasite studies. Reporting is of particular importance during disaster conditions such as we are experiencing now. During the severe flooding of Hurricane Floyd, there have been many reports of floating animal carcasses. Physicians need to be vigilant for cases of leptospirosis in individuals who have been exposed to flood waters contaminated by animal wastes. Leptospirosis will continue to be a potential threat for several weeks after Hurricane Floyd, given the infection's incubation period.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects humans and animals.
It is caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospira. In humans it causes a wide range of symptoms, and some infected persons may have no symptoms at all. In rare cases death occurs. Many of these symptoms can be mistaken for other diseases. Serum samples should be sent to the state public health laboratory to be forwarded to CDC in Atlanta for testing.