Materiały źródłowe

• #1 Harmful Micro-Organisms: Leptospirosis / Weil’s Disease from rats – HSE

  https://www.hse.gov.uk/construction/healthrisks/hazardous-substances/harmful-micro-organisms/leptospirosis-weils-disease.htm

  Follow the Assess, Control and Review model. […] The risk of Weil’s disease is linked to areas where rats are or have been present. […] Where Weil’s disease is known / assumed to be present, control this risk by: […] wearing protective clothing like gloves […] following good basic hygiene including regular hand-washing and avoiding hand to mouth/eye etc contact […] washing cuts and grazes immediately with soap and running water Cover all cuts, abrasions and other breaks in the skin with waterproof dressings and/or gloves. […] The Weil’s disease form of leptospirosis is contracted from the urine of infected rats. […] The bacteria get into your body through cuts and scratches or through the lining of the mouth, throat and eyes after contact with infected urine or contaminated water.

• #2 Azthena logo with the word Azthena

  https://www.news-medical.net/health/How-to-Prevent-Leptospirosis.aspx

  Leptospirosis is an infectious disease caused by the bacterial genus Leptospira. […] It is one of the most common infectious diseases that can be transmitted naturally to humans from animals. […] The risk of contracting the disease in some countries, for example, the UK, is very low and drastic measures to avoid exposure are not necessarily needed. However, this is not the case in other countries, such as those in tropical or temperate regions, where there are high prevalence rates, so precaution must be exercised. […] It goes without saying that one can reduce the risk of acquiring the disease by not swimming or undergoing any other activity in water that may be contaminated with animal urine. […] Furthermore, contact with infected and/or potentially infected animals should be avoided by all means necessary.

• #3 Leptospirosis: Treatment, symptoms, and types

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/246829

  Leptospirosis is more common in tropical areas, where the World Health Organization (WHO) estimate that it affects 10 or more people in every 100,000 each year. […] People traveling to tropical areas have a greater risk of exposure. […] A number of measures can help reduce the risk of getting leptospirosis, especially among those whose leisure or work activities increase their risk. […] In non-tropical, developed nations, such as the U.S., the risk of leptospirosis is very small, and most people do not need to avoid doing water sports. However, those who do watersports as part of a holiday adventure and those regularly swim in freshwater should take some precautions. […] One is to make sure that any skin cuts are covered with a waterproof dressing. […] After swimming in fresh water, it is a good idea to shower thoroughly.

• #4 Leptospirosis: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology

  https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/220563-overview

  Leptospirosis is an infectious disease of humans and animals that is caused by pathogenic spirochetes of the genus Leptospira. […] Leptospirosis typically is a biphasic pattern of early flu-like, septicemic illness followed by an inflammatory second phase. […] It is important to consider leptospirosis when dengue is diagnosed in a severely ill patient, because early antibiotics are beneficial. […] Prophylaxis may be used in the setting of epidemics. […] If used, antibiotic treatment may include the following: Doxycycline, Ampicillin or amoxicillin, Azithromycin or clarithromycin, Fluoroquinolone such as ciprofloxacin or levofloxacin. […] Patients should be advised to do the following: Avoid contact with environments potentially contaminated with animal urine, especially rodent-infested areas. […] Individuals who own dogs in warm climates with high rainfall may discuss vaccination with their veterinarian. […] Several polyvalent vaccines are available for immunization of livestock.

• #5 Leptospirosis | healthdirect

  https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/leptospirosis

  Leptospirosis is an infection caused by the bacteria leptospira affecting both humans and animals. […] You can get leptospirosis if you have contact with water, food or soil contaminated with infected animal urine. […] Can leptospirosis be prevented? […] Here are some tips to reduce your chance of catching leptospirosis: […] Cover any cuts and abrasions with a waterproof dressing before contact with soil, mud or water that may be contaminated with animal urine. […] Wear protective and waterproof clothing (such as shoes, gloves, eye shields, goggles, aprons and boots) when working with animals that could be infected or when walking in mud or moist soil. […] Shower after work, wash your hands with soap and dry your hands after handling infected material. Leptospira bacteria are quickly killed by soap, disinfectants and drying.

• #6 Leptospirosis Treatment & Management: Approach Considerations, Diet and Activity, Transfer

  https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/220563-treatment

  Prevention of leptospirosis is difficult because the organism cannot be eradicated from wild animal reservoirs, which constantly infect domestic animals. Important control measures include control of livestock infection with good sanitation, immunization, and proper veterinary care. […] Preventing infected animals from urinating in waters where humans have contact, disinfecting contaminated work areas, providing worker education, practicing good personal hygiene, and using personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling infected animals or tissues are important actions for prevention of the disease. Examples of PPE include gloves and face shields for veterinarians and rubber boots for sewer workers and agricultural workers who wade in rodent urine-contaminated water. […] Public health measures include investigation of cases in an effort to detect common source outbreaks and implementation of appropriate control measures to prevent further cases. Leptospirosis was reinstated as a Nationally Notifiable Disease in 2013. Other public health measures include identification of contaminated water supplies, rodent control, prohibition of swimming in lakes or streams where risk of infection may be high, and informing people of risk when they are involved in recreational activities.

• #7 Leptospirosis: Treatment and prevention – UpToDate

  https://www.uptodate.com/contents/leptospirosis-treatment-and-prevention

  Leptospirosis: Treatment and prevention […] PREVENTION — Several human vaccines have been developed; all are serovar specific, developed for specific epidemiologic circumstances. None is widely available. Prevention measures include avoiding potential sources of infection, administration of prophylaxis for individuals at high risk of exposure, and animal vaccination. […] The most important control measures for preventing human leptospirosis include avoiding potential sources of infection such as stagnant water and animal farm water runoff, rodent control, and protection of food from animal contamination. […] Antimicrobial prophylaxis for individuals at high risk of exposure may be useful in some settings, although the evidence for this is weak as clinical studies have been heterogenous in design and mostly underpowered. […] Vaccination of domestic and farm animals against leptospirosis can provide variable levels of protection.

• #8 Leptospirosis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24021-leptospirosis

  A vaccine for leptospirosis isnt available in the U.S. The best way to prevent leptospirosis is by not swimming or wading in water that might have animal pee in it. This includes floodwaters. Other ways you can reduce your risk include: […] Taking preventative medication. If youre traveling and at high risk for leptospirosis, ask your provider about taking medication to keep from getting sick (prophylaxis). […] Avoiding animals that could have leptospirosis. […] Wearing protective clothing and shoes if you work with or around animals. […] Wearing protective shoes and clothing if you have to be in contact with water or soil that might be contaminated with bacteria. […] Avoiding water sports and swimming in lakes and rivers after floods. […] Drinking only treated water. Dont drink water from lakes, rivers and canals without boiling it first. […] Wearing gloves if you have to touch dead animals. Dont touch them with your bare hands and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards. […] Covering open cuts or wounds with waterproof dressing.

• #9 Leptospirosis: Treatment, symptoms, and types

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/246829

  Those who work with animals or potentially contaminated water or soil should wear protective clothing and comply with local or national rules and regulations. […] People who travel to areas where leptospirosis is common should take the following steps: Avoid swimming in fresh water. Drink only water that is boiled or from a sealed bottle. Clean and cover any skin wounds with a waterproof dressing. […] Emergency workers or military personnel in disaster zones might have to take antibiotics as a precautionary measure. […] Other tips for avoiding leptospirosis include: controlling pests, especially rodents; washing hands with soap and water after handling animals and animal products; avoiding touching dead animals with bare hands; cleaning all wounds as soon as possible and covering them with waterproof dressings; wearing protective clothing at work, if appropriate; avoiding wading, swimming, or other contact with rivers, streams, and lake water, especially after flooding, or shower at once after exposure; avoid contact with or consuming anything that has been in contact with flood water; avoiding drinking water from rivers and lakes unless it has been boiled or chemically treated; ensuring that dogs have a vaccination against leptospirosis.

• #10 Leptospirosis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention

  https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-leptospirosis

  Leptospirosis Prevention […] Avoid unsafe water. If youre in a developing country, dont drink the water unless youre sure its clean. But because leptospirosis can enter through other body openings, its also a good idea to avoid swimming, waterskiing, sailing, or fishing in freshwater areas. Saltwater is generally safe. […] Keep away from infected animals, especially wild rats. Rats and other rodents are the main carriers of the bacteria. Be careful if you have to handle wild rats or come in contact with their habitats. […] In the developed world, farm animals are usually vaccinated, so theres much less risk. If an animal is ill, avoid bites and body fluids. The disease cant be passed through the air like a cold or the flu. […] Be aware of your surroundings, especially when you travel. In countries with poor sanitation, leptospirosis is more common and may be hard to avoid. So, know the symptoms and get help if you become ill. […] Use disinfectant. Bleach, Lysol, acid solutions, and iodine are deadly to the bacteria. Keep them on hand to clean up.

• #11 Centre for Health Protection – Leptospirosis

  https://www.chp.gov.hk/en/healthtopics/content/24/3056.html

  Avoid contact with fresh water, soil and vegetation that might be contaminated with the urine or bodily fluids of infected animals, especially rodents. […] Avoid directly touching urine or bodily fluids from an infected animal. Never touch a dead animal with bare hands. […] Wash or shower after exposure to contaminated water or soil. […] Clean wound immediately and cover properly with waterproof adhesive dressings until healed. […] Wear appropriate protective clothing or footwear when participating in recreational or work activities that might result in contact with contaminated soil or water. […] Perform hand hygiene frequently. Wash hands with liquid soap and water after handling pets or animals, and disinfect contaminated areas. […] Drink only boiled water from the mains or bottled drinks from reliable sources.

• #12 Leptospirosis – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leptospirosis

  Rates of leptospirosis can be reduced by improving housing, infrastructure, and sanitation standards. Rodent abatement efforts and flood mitigation projects can also help to prevent it. […] Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by people who have a high risk of occupational exposure can prevent leptospirosis infections in most cases. […] There is no human vaccine suitable for worldwide use. Only a few countries such as Cuba, Japan, France, and China have approved inactivated vaccines with limited protective effects. […] Vaccination of livestock and domestic animals, particularly dogs and cattle, is an effective measure in preventing both animal illness and zoonotic transmission to humans. […] Doxycycline is given once a week as a prophylaxis and is effective in reducing the rate of leptospirosis infections amongst high-risk individuals in flood-prone areas. […] The prevention of leptospirosis from environmental sources like contaminated waterways, soil, sewers, and agricultural fields, is disinfection used by effective microorganisms, which is mixed with bokashi mudballs for the infected waterways sewers.

• #13 Weil’s Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

  https://www.healthline.com/health/weils-disease

  Scientists have developed vaccines that seem to provide some protection against leptospirosis. Vaccines for humans are only available in some countries, such as Cuba and France. However, these vaccines may only protect against certain forms of Leptospira bacteria, and they may not provide long-term immunity. […] Theres no vaccine available for humans in the United States, although vaccines are available for dogs, cattle, and some other animals. […] If you work with animals or animal products, you can lower your risk of infection by wearing protective gear that includes: waterproof shoes, goggles, gloves. […] You should also follow proper sanitation and rat-control measures to help prevent the spread of Leptospira bacteria. Rodents are one of the primary carriers of infection. […] Avoid stagnant water and water from farm runoffs, and minimize animal contamination of food or food waste.

• #14 Leptospirosis (Weil’s Disease) | Doctor

  https://patient.info/doctor/leptospirosis-weils-disease

  The risk of infection can be greatly reduced by not swimming or wading in water that might be contaminated with animal urine. […] If there is contact with fresh, surface waters (eg, canals, ponds or rivers) or with rats then advise the person to: […] If swimming, minimise the swallowing of water. […] Cover cuts, scratches or sores with a waterproof plaster and thoroughly clean any cuts or abrasions caused during the water activity. […] Wear appropriate protective clothing, gloves or protective footwear. […] Wash or shower promptly after water sports. […] Avoid capsize drill or rolling in stagnant or slow-moving water. […] Wear thick gloves when handling rats. […] Wash hands after any contact with natural water or after handling any animal, and again before eating.

• #15 Leptospirosis – Knowledge @ AMBOSS

  https://www.amboss.com/us/knowledge/leptospirosis/

  Avoid exposure to urine, blood, and tissue of infected animals by wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (e.g., eyewear, footwear). […] Implement appropriate pest control strategies. […] Vaccinate livestock and pets. […] Consider antibiotic prophylaxis for high-risk, short-term exposures. […] Agents […] Doxycycline (off-label) […] OR azithromycin (off-label) […] Duration: Initiate 12 days before anticipated exposure and continue throughout the period of exposure.

• #16 Leptospirosis (Weil’s Disease) | Doctor

  https://patient.info/doctor/leptospirosis-weils-disease

  Public health measures to prevent and reduce leptospirosis include identification of contaminated water sources, rodent control, prohibition of swimming in waters where risk of infection is high and raising risk awareness for those involved in recreational water activities. Reducing rodent populations reduces risk – eg, by clearing rubbish and preventing rodent access into buildings. […] There is no available human vaccine effective against leptospirosis. […] For people who may be at high risk for short periods (eg, occupational risk, high-risk water sports activities in known endemic areas or living or working in areas after natural disasters), taking doxycycline (200 mg weekly) may be effective. […] Immunisation of animals with Leptospira vaccines: an animal vaccine is available, and immunising and treating infected animals is worthwhile.

• #17 Leptospirosis – The Disease in Horses – College of Veterinary Medicine – Purdue University

  https://vet.purdue.edu/hospital/equine/tips/leptospirosis.php

  How can you prevent this disease? Good farm management is important. Keep feed sources protected from wildlife (such as mice, rats, possums, raccoons, deer, etc.). Refresh standing water in troughs. […] Vaccination is a new option. In 2015, Zoetis released an equine Leptospirosis vaccine. This vaccine is considered safe in horses 6 months and older, and is safe and recommended for mares during pregnancy to prevent leptospirosis-induced abortion. Studies suggest it is effective in preventing the infection, but because it is a new vaccine, the data is limited to date.

• #18 What is Weil’s Disease and what happens if I get it? – PEST UK

  https://www.pestuk.com/blog/what-is-weils-disease-and-what-happens-if-i-get-it/

  Avoid walking through floodwaters where possible; […] Prevent children from playing in stagnant puddles and pools; […] Wear wellies and other protective gear if exposed to potentially contaminated water; […] Keep cuts and scratches covered with waterproof plasters wherever possible; […] Wash as soon as possible if exposed to floodwater; […] Do not swallow contaminated water; […] Seek pest control treatment as soon as you notice a rodent infestation occurring; […] Disinfect any surfaces and areas, and throw away any food that has been subject to a rodent infestation.

• #19 Leptospirosis | WorkSafe.qld.gov.au

  https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/safety-and-prevention/hazards/hazardous-exposures/biological-hazards/diseases-from-animals/leptospirosis

  Clean and disinfect anywhere that is contaminated with animal urine or has signs of mice and rats. […] Don’t drink untreated water. If you need to use untreated water, make it safe to drink by boiling or using an appropriate chemical treatment, especially if collecting from a source that could be contaminated by floodwater or yard runoff. […] Don’t touch dead animals with your bare hands. […] Don’t feed raw offal to your dogs. This increases the risk of them getting leptospirosis and passing it to humans.

• #20 Leptospirosis (Weil’s disease)

  https://health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/leptospirosis/fact_sheet.htm

  Leptospirosis (Weil’s disease) […] What can be done to prevent the spread of leptospirosis? […] Disease prevention consists of good sanitation. The use of boots and gloves in hazardous places, and rodent control can also minimize the risk of spread. […] […] […] Owners of infected dogs are advised to: […] Work with a veterinarian to treat the infection in their dog. […] Use caution when handling the dog’s urine, and wash hands whenever there is any question that there was urine contact. […] Until the dog’s infection is cleared up, do not let the dog walk or urinate in high risk areas such as parks frequented by children, beaches, near waterways that are used for drinking, recreation, etc.

• #21 Leptospirosis (Weil’s disease)

  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/leptospirosis/

  Leptospirosis is rare in the UK. […] You have a higher chance of getting it if you do outdoor activities like water sports (especially while abroad in tropical areas), or you work with animals or animal parts. […] There are things you can do to reduce your chances of getting leptospirosis. […] wash your hands with soap and water after handling animals or animal products […] clean any wounds as soon as possible […] cover any cuts and grazes with waterproof plasters […] wear protective clothing if you’re at risk through your job […] shower as soon as possible if you’ve been in potentially infected water […] check your dog is vaccinated against leptospirosis (there is no vaccine for people). […] do not touch water or soil that may contain animal pee […] do not touch dead animals with your bare hands […] do not drink water from places like rivers, canals or lakes always boil or treat it first.

• #22 Weil’s disease (leptospirosis)

  https://www.rospa.com/leisure-water-safety/Water/Advice/Weils-Disease

  Weil’s disease is a form of a bacterial infection also known as Leptospirosis that is carried by animals, most commonly in rats and cattle. […] Although human infection in the UK is minimal it is still worth taking some preventative measures to decrease the possibility of contracting it. […] The best prevention is to understand where and how Weil’s disease can be caught and taking precautions based on this knowledge. If you know you may come into contact with untreated water such as flood waters, canals, ponds and rivers you can reduce the risk of infection by taking the following precautions: […] Cover any open wounds such as cuts and scratches with waterproof plasters. […] Wear protective clothing such as gloves. […] Wash thoroughly and as soon as possible if you have entered the water.

• #23

  https://wirehouse-es.com/health-and-safety/leptospirosis-how-to-protect-your-employees/

  Leptospirosis is a disease that affects millions of people every year worldwide and is potentially fatal. […] So if any of your employees are likely to have contact with contaminated water or work outside where there may be rodent activity, you need to take suitable precautions. […] Employers must assess the risk of contact with the disease during any work processes and activities. Clearly identify who might be at risk and how they could be affected. Consider what control measures are required to be implemented and maintained during the work tasks. There are a range of simple and effective controls that work very well for most infection risks including: Following good basic hygiene procedures like regular hand-washing, Avoid immersion in or contact with water wherever possible, Avoid hand to mouth and hand to eye contact, Taking rest breaks away from the work area, Wash cuts and grazes immediately with soap and running water, Cover all cuts and blisters with waterproof dressings, Wearing protective clothing including gloves, Hose down all equipment after use to remove any potential contamination, Inform and educate your workforce. […] Speak to our expert Health and Safety Team for any specific concerns relating to Leptospirosis and help with putting effective safety procedures in place for your business.

• #24 Antibiotic prophylaxis for leptospirosis

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8879687/

  To assess the beneficial and harmful effects of antibiotics for the prevention of leptospirosis […] Antibiotic prophylaxis has also been recommended as a preventive measure in high-risk areas […] The World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines recommend antibiotic prophylaxis for leptospirosis as a possible preventive intervention, particularly for travellers and high-risk groups […] Prophylaxis for leptospirosis is an approach in which an individual takes an antibiotic to reduce the likelihood of infection, either before or after potential exposure […] Population-based mass prophylaxis has been used before or after floods and during occupational or recreational activities where there is a risk of exposure […] However, the use of antibiotic prophylaxis for leptospirosis must be carefully considered because of the adverse effects and unclear benefits of prophylaxis

• #25 Leptospirosis: An important zoonosis acquired through work, play and travel

  https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/2018/march/leptospirosis

  Infection risk can also be reduced by control measures aimed at minimising environmental contamination, including livestock vaccination, segregating infected animals, rodent control, flood mitigation and reducing garbage, which attracts rodents and blocks drains. Sources of infection identified through case investigations should be managed appropriately to reduce the risk of further cases. During high-risk periods (eg post-flooding), public health warnings and alerts should be issued. […] Doxycycline has been considered for prophylaxis, but a systematic review concluded that regular use at 200 mg weekly was associated with nausea and vomiting, and there was no clear benefit for reducing the risk of leptospirosis. Routine use is therefore not recommended, but might be considered if short-term intense exposures are anticipated (eg soldiers, outbreak response personnel, recreational exposure) or after high-risk exposures (eg floodwaters). Doxycycline can also provide protection against other infectious disease (eg malaria, rickettsia). For travellers to malaria-endemic areas who may be at risk of leptospirosis, using doxycycline for malaria prophylaxis (in preference to other antimalarial medications) could be considered.

• #26 Leptospirosis | Yellow Book | CDC

  https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2024/infections-diseases/leptospirosis

  The best way to prevent infection is to avoid exposure. Advise travelers to avoid exposure to potentially contaminated bodies of freshwater, flood waters, potentially infected animals or their body fluids, and areas with rodent infestation. […] Educate travelers who might be at increased risk for infection to consider taking additional preventive measures (e.g., wearing protective clothing, especially footwear), instructing them to cover cuts and abrasions with occlusive dressings, and counseling them on boiling or chemically treating potentially contaminated drinking water. […] Limited studies have shown that chemoprophylaxis with doxycycline (200 mg orally, weekly), begun 12 days before and continuing through the period of exposure, might be effective in preventing clinical disease in adults and could be considered for people at high risk and with short-term exposures. […] No human vaccine is available in the United States.

• #27 Leptospirosis: Treatment, symptoms, and types

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/246829

  The best way to prevent infection by leptospirosis is to avoid contact with bodies of water in areas where leptospirosis is common. […] However, if activities that involve exposure to bodies of water are planned, the CDC say that a traveler can take an oral antibiotic called doxycycline once weekly to prevent infection by this bacteria. […] The prophylaxis should be started 1-2 days before the exposure to water is set to happen.

• #27 Leptospirosis: Treatment, symptoms, and types

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/246829

  Those who work with animals or potentially contaminated water or soil should wear protective clothing and comply with local or national rules and regulations. […] People who travel to areas where leptospirosis is common should take the following steps: Avoid swimming in fresh water. Drink only water that is boiled or from a sealed bottle. Clean and cover any skin wounds with a waterproof dressing. […] Emergency workers or military personnel in disaster zones might have to take antibiotics as a precautionary measure. […] Other tips for avoiding leptospirosis include: controlling pests, especially rodents; washing hands with soap and water after handling animals and animal products; avoiding touching dead animals with bare hands; cleaning all wounds as soon as possible and covering them with waterproof dressings; wearing protective clothing at work, if appropriate; avoiding wading, swimming, or other contact with rivers, streams, and lake water, especially after flooding, or shower at once after exposure; avoid contact with or consuming anything that has been in contact with flood water; avoiding drinking water from rivers and lakes unless it has been boiled or chemically treated; ensuring that dogs have a vaccination against leptospirosis.

• #28 BestBets: Prophylactic antibiotic use to prevent Weil’s Disease after immersion in water

  https://bestbets.org/bets/bet.php?id=1765

  Prophylactic antibiotic use to prevent Weil’s Disease after immersion in water should prophylactic antibiotics be given to prevent infection from Leptospirosis? […] It would therefore be prudent for UK nationals to take antibiotics if exposed to water immersion in an endemic area. […] If there is immersion in an endemic area for leptospirosis, or if there is higher risk of water contamination e.g standing water, known rat infestation, drainage channels etc then doxycycline would have to be recommended.

• #29 Leptospirosis Treatment & Management: Approach Considerations, Diet and Activity, Transfer

  https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/220563-treatment

  Vaccines exist for animals and humans but are not necessarily available in all areas. For example, vaccines may be offered to high-risk workers in some European and Asian countries (eg, rice workers in Italy) but are not available to US short-term travelers to endemic areas. No leptospirosis vaccine is available for human use in the United States, but there are vaccines for animals (pets and agricultural). […] Doxycycline, in the dose of 200 mg every week, has demonstrated efficacy of 95% against leptospirosis and may help prevent the disease in exposed adults. […] The role of prophylaxis in children has not been adequately studied, however, animal studies support its use in prophylaxis. […] Episodic prophylaxis with antibiotics is recommended for those with short-term exposure and is not for repeated or long-term exposure in endemic areas. A randomized placebo-controlled trial comparing doxycycline and azithromycin prophylaxis in Iranian paddy field workers showed statistically significant reduction in seropositivity associated with either antibiotic versus placebo after 6 and 12 weeks. No difference was observed in incidence of clinical disease.

• #30 Leptospirosis: Treatment and prevention – UpToDate

  https://www.uptodate.com/contents/leptospirosis-treatment-and-prevention/print

  Leptospirosis: Treatment and prevention […] PREVENTION — […] Several human vaccines have been developed; all are serovar specific, developed for specific epidemiologic circumstances. None is widely available. Prevention measures include avoiding potential sources of infection, administration of prophylaxis for individuals at high risk of exposure, and animal vaccination. […] The most important control measures for preventing human leptospirosis include avoiding potential sources of infection such as stagnant water and animal farm water runoff, rodent control, and protection of food from animal contamination. […] Antimicrobial prophylaxis for individuals at high risk of exposure may be useful in some settings, although the evidence for this is weak as clinical studies have been heterogenous in design and mostly underpowered. Among more than 700 individuals in the Andaman Islands (a highly endemic setting in Southeast Asia where outbreaks of leptospirosis related to flooding are common) randomized to prophylaxis with doxycycline 200 mg orally weekly or placebo, clinical infection rates were lower among those who received doxycycline (3.1 versus 6.8 percent), although there was no difference in seroconversion rates. In another study including more than 900 soldiers deployed for jungle training in Panama, fewer cases of leptospirosis were observed among those who received doxycycline prophylaxis (200 mg orally every week for two to three weeks and at the end of exposure) compared with placebo (1 versus 20 cases).

• #31 Antibiotic prophylaxis for leptospirosis

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8879687/

  A systematic review concluded that weekly use of oral doxycycline 200 mg significantly increases the incidence of adverse effects such as nausea and vomiting, while the benefits in terms of reducing Leptospira seroconversion and clinical sequelae of infection are unclear […] Many factors, such as recent flooding, dense urban populations, and occupational or recreational exposures continue to pose a predictably high risk for leptospirosis […] Antibiotic prophylaxis has been proposed as a method of preventing leptospirosis in humans […] Mass antibiotic prophylaxis can provide protection by reducing the overall number of leptospirosis infected patients following high-risk exposure, decreasing the incidence and prevalence of the disease, and preventing morbidity and mortality […] Although the use of antibiotics for leptospirosis prophylaxis is generally recommended, data on its effectiveness are limited.

• #32 Leptospirosis | Nature Reviews Disease Primers

  https://www.nature.com/articles/s41572-025-00614-5

  Leptospirosis is a zoonotic bacterial infection that is prevalent across all continents and is caused by pathogenic spirochaetes of the genus Leptospira. […] Very few countries have licensed a vaccine for human leptospirosis, and available vaccines only protect against rodent-associated serogroups. Exposure control by behavioural modifications and personal protective measures are the major preventative measures in leptospirosis, and the efficacy of prophylactic antibiotics has not been confirmed in clinical trials. […] Future research is needed to accurately estimate leptospirosis disease burden across the globe, to understand the pathophysiology of severe leptospirosis to inform the design of targeted immunotherapies and vaccines, and to develop cost-effective and accurate point-of-care diagnostics.

• #33 Leptospirosis: symptoms, treatment, prevention – Institut Pasteur

  https://www.pasteur.fr/en/medical-center/disease-sheets/leptospirosis

  Effective preventive measures include rat extermination, draining flooded areas and monitoring water from factory farms, but these can be hard to implement. Personal protective equipment (gloves, goggles and boots) is recommended for people who may be exposed to Leptospira. […] It is also important to avoid swimming in fresh water if you have any open wounds, especially after heavy rainfall, when there can be run-off from banks and soil. […] In France, a human vaccine is available solely for workers with high exposure, such as farmers, livestock breeders, sewage workers and garbage collectors. A specific vaccine for dogs is widely used in France. There are also vaccines for farm animals.

• #34 :: IC :: Infection & Chemotherapy

  https://icjournal.org/DOIx.php?id=10.3947/ic.2019.51.3.315

  Leptospirosis was designated a nationally notifiable disease in 1987. […] The Korean government introduced a supplementary immunization program to control the disease from 1988 to 1997, which provided people at risk in endemic areas with the inactivated vaccine prepared from a local strain Leptospira interrogans serovar Lai. […] The continuous promotion of education and awareness in the media played a role in improving personal hygiene management. […] Preventive measures for leptospirosis can be divided into management of reservoirs, management of contaminated environment, and management of humans. […] Management of humans can be divided into personal hygiene and vaccination. […] For the control of leptospirosis, the KNIH developed a formalin-killed cell vaccine using serovar Lai (HY-10 strain) isolated from a patient with fatal leptospirosis.

• #35 Leptospirosis | Cornell Wildlife Health Lab

  https://cwhl.vet.cornell.edu/disease/leptospirosis

  People who work with animals, including veterinarians, livestock producers, and dairy workers, are at increased risk of leptospirosis and should take appropriate preventative precautions including wearing gloves and washing hands frequently. […] Vaccines against leptospirosis are available for pigs, cattle, and dogs. Vaccination against leptospirosis should be considered for dogs at risk, but most vaccines offered only protection against the most common serovars. […] Taking appropriate precautions can help decrease the risk of contracting leptospirosis.

• #36 Leptospirosis in Cattle

  https://www.nadis.org.uk/disease-a-z/cattle/leptospirosis-in-cattle/

  Control of Leptospira Hardjo in cattle herds relies upon a combination of management decisions to reduce risk of infection, strategic antibiotic treatment, and vaccination. The primary course of immunisation consists of two injections four weeks apart followed by annual boosting. Vaccination should prevent urine shedding following exposure and will protect against milk drop and abortion. […] Herds experiencing acute Leptospira Hardjo infection for the first time should consider whole herd antibiotic treatment to reduce the risk of spread of infection and a vaccination programme. […] Herds with evidence of endemic infection indicated by herd screening or abortion serology should vaccinate with an annual booster. Replacement heifers should have completed their vaccination course before first service.

• #37

  https://www.gov.uk/guidance/leptospirosis

  Increasing public awareness about the disease and preventative measures can help to reduce the risk of infection. These preventative measures include: handwashing after contact with animals or exposure to water that might be contaminated with animal urine […] cleaning wounds as soon as possible after exposure […] showering as soon as possible after exposure […] wearing protective clothing when appropriate […] covering cuts and grazes with waterproof plasters […] vaccinating domestic dogs against leptospirosis […] avoiding contact with rodents and putting prevention and control measures in place where necessary […] avoiding swimming and watersports in areas where contamination levels are high. […] There is no available vaccination against leptospirosis for humans. Vaccination against leptospirosis is available for cattle and dogs to prevent disease and reduce the risk of transmission to owners. In the UK it is part of the core vaccination programme for dogs. For further advice on preventing leptospirosis infection in cattle please see guidance published by APHA.

• #38 Canine leptospirosis | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine

  https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/canine-leptospirosis

  Canine leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can have serious consequences in dogs and can also affect humans. Prevention of leptospirosis includes vaccination, which protects against the four most common strains, and avoiding common sources of contamination. […] Prevention is much simpler than treatment, and should include the following: […] Vaccinate dogs annually with the leptospirosis vaccine […] Limit access to standing water […] Prevent rodent problems […] Avoid contact with wildlife. […] After the first vaccine, your dog will need a booster in 3-4 weeks. Your dog should then receive a booster once a year.

• #39 Fulminant Leptospirosis (Weil’s disease) in an urban setting as an overlooked cause of multiorgan failure: a case report | Journal of Medical Case Reports | Full Text

  https://jmedicalcasereports.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1752-1947-5-7

  Public health measures to prevent and reduce leptospirosis include identification of contaminated water sources, rodent control, prohibition of swimming in waters where risk of infection is high and informing persons of the risk involved in recreational water activities. […] The case of fulminant leptospirosis presented here should serve to alert health care providers and the general public to the clinical importance of this severe, sometimes fatal, disease. […] An accurate and quick diagnostic test is warranted in the interest of the individual patient, as well as public health. Recognition of fulminant leptospirosis is especially important because antimicrobial agents can reduce its severity and duration as well as lead to a favorable outcome of this potentially lethal condition.

• #40

  https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/controlguideline/Pages/leptospirosis.aspx

  Promote public awareness of possible transmission risk when undertaking recreational water-based activities including wading, swimming and white water rafting. […] Provide staff working in hazardous occupations with appropriate protective equipment to prevent contamination, including when working with potentially infected animals, their tissues or secretions. […] Ensure cuts and skin abrasions are covered by watertight dressings and encourage frequent hand washing during exposure to high risk settings or environments. […] Implement rodent control measures around homes, outbuildings and other areas attracting rodents, e.g. grain or animal feed stores and refuse disposal areas. […] Animal owners should seek veterinary advice about preventing leptospirosis in companion animals or livestock. In NSW, vaccination against leptospirosis is available for cattle, pigs and dogs. Vaccination aims to reduce the burden of disease in animals but can also reduce the potential for human exposure.

• #41 Leptospirosis | Health & Human Services

  https://hhs.iowa.gov/center-acute-disease-epidemiology/epi-manual/information-other-diseases-and-conditions-fact-sheets/leptospirosis

  To prevent illness, prevent contamination of living, working and recreational areas by urine of infected animals. […] Domestic animal owners should take necessary precautions to minimize their animals potential contact with wildlife (e.g., do not feed pets outside or allow animals to roam unsupervised). […] Among domesticated animals, vaccination of swine, cattle, and dogs is effective in preventing symptoms of disease, but it does not protect completely against infection and shedding of organisms in the urine. […] To prevent leptospirosis, the public may need to be educated on how the disease is transmitted and the importance of proper food storage and garbage disposal. […] If their occupation or recreational activities require such exposure, education on use of personal protective measures (i.e., proper clothing, footwear and gloves) should be given. […] Doxycycline is effective post-exposure prophylaxis (200 mg/once a week) and should be considered for high-risk occupational groups during periods of high exposure.

• #42 Weil’s disease (leptospirosis)

  https://www.rospa.com/leisure-water-safety/Water/Advice/Weils-Disease

  Assess the risk of the likelihood of contamination if contemplating entering fresh water, particularly be aware of stagnant water. […] Carefully clean any open wounds obtained during time at fresh water. […] Employers have a duty to employees to inform them about the risks of their work environment and to decrease the risk as far as is reasonably practicable. This includes PPE provision and policy implementation based on risk assessment. […] Employees that work near water should be provided with a workers card that can be presented to their doctor if symptoms appear. This means they can be diagnosed and treated quickly, reducing the likelihood of severity of infection. […] Seek medical treatment and explain to the practitioner that you have been in contact with open water. If you are an employee, show them your workers card. Early diagnosis and treatment of Leptospirosis can prevent more severe cases of infection.

• #43 Centre for Health Protection – Leptospirosis

  https://www.chp.gov.hk/en/healthtopics/content/24/3056.html

  Prevent rodent infestation by keeping food, water and trash in closed containers and maintaining the hygienic condition of the environment. […] Leptospirosis can be spread by contaminated soil and water during and after typhoons and storms. Whether practicable, stay indoor during typhoons and storms, avoid travelling to areas with potential flooding, and not to wade or contact with muddy water and soil. […] Travellers can contract the disease through outdoor water sports. Risk of infection can be minimised by limiting exposure to water sources, such as rivers, ponds or lakes that might be contaminated with the urine or bodily fluids of infected animals and avoiding swimming or wading in potentially contaminated water.

• #44 Leptospirosis: Treatment and prevention – UpToDate

  https://www.uptodate.com/contents/leptospirosis-treatment-and-prevention/print

  Vaccination of domestic and farm animals against leptospirosis can provide variable levels of protection. […] SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS […] Prevention – There is no human vaccine widely available. Prevention measures include avoiding potential sources of infection, administration of prophylaxis for individuals at high risk of exposure, and animal vaccination. Prophylaxis with doxycycline is reasonable for individuals with high likelihood for exposure to leptospires in endemic environments over a defined period.

• #45 Factsheet about leptospirosis

  https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/leptospirosis/factsheet

  Prevention and control mainly focus on the identification and reduction of the infection source and the prevention of penetration of leptospires into the accidental host. Prevention of transmission can be achieved by wearing protective clothing. Prophylactic treatment with doxycycline is protective to some extent. Vaccination is available in a limited number of countries, but currently not considered as a generally applicable option. […] Improving water and food storage conditions, increasing public awareness about the disease and infection risks, as well as the control of rodents, may reduce the risk of transmission. Infection risk from domestic animals can be reduced by vaccination or treatment of carriers. Both approaches should be combined with herd management. Vaccines are available for cattle, dogs and pigs, and provide a short-term serovar-specific protection.

• #46 Toolbox Talk – Weil’s Disease – Essential Safety

  https://essentialconsult.co.uk/news/toolbox-talk-weils-disease/

  Wash your hands before eating, drinking or smoking, and after you have finished working. […] Wear protective equipment you are provided with; including rubber gloves and footwear. […] Wear protective gloves whilst handling timber, masonry or other materials that may have become infected and at any time when scratches, cuts or abrasions are likely. […] Wash thoroughly, and as soon as possible, if you have entered the water. […] Ensure measures are in place to control rats such as removal of food from workplaces, welfare facilities etc. and take immediate action should you suspect presence of rats. […] If you frequently work near water, carry a card or tag saying that you may be at risk of catching the disease. […] See a doctor if you feel ill with flu-like symptoms and tell them you have been working near water.

• #47 Treatment: Medical Professional’s Guidance – Leptospirosis Information

  http://www.leptospirosis.org/medical/professional.php

  Specific agents should only be provided to those who are expecting to enter high risk areas (Doxycycline 200mg per week) or those reporting known exposure but are as yet asymptomatic (Doxycycline 100mg per day for 7 days). Prevention of infection is the only reliable method of control, and relies on physical barriers and environmental controls to prevent exposure to the organisms.

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