The Chenango County Health Department is warning residents about an increase in the number of cases of leptospirosis in dogs.

According to the department, 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 at time. Both humans and animals, including pets and livestock, can become infected when exposed.

The department adds that it can take 2 to 30 days to become sick after exposure. During the first phase of being sick, symptoms include fever, rash, headache, diarrhea, chills, body aches, nausea or vomiting, red eyes, yellow or jaundiced skin and eyes, and stomach pains.

During Phase 2, 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 if they are exposed to the bacteria. Other risk exposures include the following:

  • 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.

Due to the fact that the bacteria is spread through urine, it is important to wash your hands and practice other good hygiene habits. Below are some tips to help prevent the spread of leptospirosis:

  • 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 and/or your pet or livestock have been exposed, contact your healthcare provider and/or veterinarian and follow their instructions.