In this context, the provincial official explained that it is “atypical cases” and pointed out that it has not yet been possible to identify the high-risk contact that the victims had, who worked performing tasks of milking and handling animals, such as pigs and sheep.
Furthermore, he said that The National Agri-Food Health and Quality Service (Senasa) carried out the corresponding control and the animals showed that they were carriers of the disease.
“The symptoms of this disease may initially resemble those of influenza and dengue and, in endemic areas, those of Argentine Hemorrhagic Fever; that’s why “Early consultation and timely treatment are extremely important to reduce the risk of developing severe forms.”stated Laura López.
What is leptospirosis
Transmission of this bacteria, which survives in humid places protected from light, occurs through direct contact with the urine of an infected animal, or by ingestion of food and water contaminated with said urine.
Although contagion in people is not common, the disease has a high risk of fatality, which can reach 40% in the most serious cases.
The incubation period can vary from one to 30 days, but it normally occurs that between 7 and 14 days after coming into contact with flood water or wastewater, symptoms may begin, which are: fever, headache, muscle aches and pain. general discomfort.
Leptospirosis: how to prevent it
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Avoid the accumulation of water in homes.
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Avoid contact with water and surfaces that may be contaminated.
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Eliminate garbage and debris so that they do not become a refuge for rodents.
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Keep waste in closed containers, preferably away from the ground to prevent it from being a food source for rats.
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Store food in dry, cool places, in jars, plastic containers or cans with lids more than 50 cm from the ground (do not use bags to store them as rats break them easily).
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Strengthen hygiene at home and cover holes in homes where rodents can enter.
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Disinfect with diluted bleach the places where rodent traffic was observed, or where there may be remains of rat feces or urine, using gloves and boots. Avoid sweeping or performing actions that may raise dust.
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Carry out rodent control in homes.
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Use gloves and rubber boots to carry out rat control, weeding or cleaning vacant lots. Workers at occupational risk should especially adopt these guidelines.
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In rural areas, it is advisable to consult the veterinarian if abortions or diseases appear in animals. It is also recommended to wear protective clothing when working, caring for animals, and in flooded areas or when crossing standing water. In endemic areas, it is crucial to vaccinate dogs and cows.
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