People who canoe, raft, wade, or swim in contaminated lakes, rivers, and streams can get leptospirosis. Leptospirosis is also a problem for people who work in contaminated flood plains or wet agricultural settings. Leptospirosis bacteria can enter the body through broken skin and mucous membranes. The bacteria can also enter the body when a person swallows contaminated food or water, including water swallowed during water sports. Once in the bloodstream, the bacteria can reach all parts of the body and cause signs and symptoms of illness.
Most infected persons have a mild to moderate illness that is like many other tropical diseases.
Symptoms include fever, headache, chills, nausea and vomiting, eye inflammation, and muscle aches. People who are seriously ill with leptospirosis often need to be hospitalized. Symptoms usually begin about 10 days after infection. Leptospirosis is diagnosed by a special blood test that is available through state health departments. Severe or untreated leptospirosis can lead to organ system damage and, in rare cases, death.