CHENANGO COUNTY- The Chenango County Health Department would like to make the community aware of a recent increase in cases of leptospirosis in dogs.

Local veterinarians have reported this increase to the department, emphasizing the need for public awareness.

Leptospirosis is a disease caused by bacteria in contaminated soil and water that is spread through urine. It can live in water and soil for months at a time. Humans and animals, including pets and livestock, can become infected when exposed. On average it takes 2-30 days to get sick after exposure. There are two phases of this disease. In the first phase, symptoms include fever, rash, headache, diarrhea, chills, body aches, nausea or vomiting, red eyes, yellow or jaundiced skin and eyes, and stomach pains. In the second phase, symptoms include: liver or kidney failure, inflammation of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis), difficulty breathing, and can lead to death.

Unvaccinated animals are at risk of leptospirosis if exposed to the bacteria. Other risk exposures include:

- Directly touching the body fluids of an infected animal.

- Eating food, drinking water, or directly touching soil that is contaminated by the urine of an infected animal.

- Water recreation like swimming, kayaking, or canoeing in rivers, lakes, and creeks

- Hiking or hunting.

- Gardening, yard work, or outdoor cleaning and maintenance.

- Jobs like working at a veterinary clinic, dairy farming, or butchering.

- People experiencing homelessness or living in close quarters to others are at a higher risk of exposure.

- Everyone is at higher risk of exposure after heavy rain or flooding.

Animal urine in the soil can contaminate rain or floodwater and, therefore, contaminate anywhere that water goes.

Because the bacteria that cause Leptospirosis is spread through urine, it is important to practice good hygiene habits, like washing your hands after handling animals, being in your garden, and before you eat. Below are some other measures of prevention.

- Don’t swim in water that could be contaminated, especially after heavy rain or flooding.

- Avoid contact with animals that could be infected.

- Cover cuts and scrapes with waterproof bandages.

- Wear protective, waterproof clothing and footwear when around potentially. contaminated water, like during or after a flood event.

- Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly.

- Vaccinate your animals against leptospirosis and isolate those that are sick.

- Control the rodent population around your home, recreation, and work areas.

If you think you have been exposed, immediately contact your healthcare provider and follow their instructions. If you think your pet or livestock has been exposed, contact your veterinarian immediately and follow their instructions.

Persons with questions or requiring additional information may contact the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

- Chenango County Health Department