The Hardjo form of leptospirosis This is transmitted from cattle to humans. Both diseases start with a flu-like illness with a persistent and severe headache. Anyone who is exposed to rats, rat or cattle urine or to fetal fluids from cattle is at risk. Workers in contact with canal and river water are also at risk. The bacteria can get into your body through cuts and scratches and through the lining of the mouth, throat and eyes after contact with infected urine or contaminated water, such as in sewers, ditches, ponds and slow-flowing rivers.
People working in dairy parlours are often in contact with cattle urine.
Rat urine may also contaminate animal feed stuffs on farms. Get rid of rats. Don't touch them with unprotected hands. Consult your vet about the cattle infection. Cover all cuts and broken skin with waterproof plasters before and during work.