The General Directorate of Public Health of the Valencian Community reported this Friday two probable cases of leptospira, although the results have yet to be confirmed with the corresponding analyzes.
Leptospirosis is a disease caused by a bacterial which can be contracted by contact with flood waters, wet soil or sludge contaminated with urine or tissues of infected animals, with rats being the most frequent reservoirs. That is why it is one of the main risks after a flood.
Contagion and symptoms
Leptospira bacteria can enter the body through skin or mucosal lesions and between cleaning and rescue tasks.
Fever, general malaise and muscle pain These are the main symptoms of this disease, the treatment of which is antibiotics.
The Ministry of Health insists on the importance of observing the symptoms of exposed people in the affected municipalities and going to the health point if necessary. Among the symptoms to take into account high and persistent fever is foundsevere diarrhea or vomiting, severe abdominal pain or yellowing of the skin and/or eyes.
Additionally, you should also look for dark urine, persistent cough or difficulty breathing, red or purple skin rashes that may indicate bleeding under the skin, severe headache or stiff neck, confusion, disorientation, or agitation. .
Likewise, special attention must be paid to open wounds or lesions, especially if they show signs of infection (redness, swelling, discharge or pain).
Recommendations
Regarding the recommendations, it is important to wash your hands very well with soap and water, use a mask, gloves, eye protection and appropriate long-sleeved clothing when cleaning the affected areas, as well as not consume food in contact with the flooded soils.
Furthermore, when cleaning houses it is recommended open windows and doors to ventilateremove all wet belongings, stagnant water, mud and mud, clean the walls and floors and disinfect with bleach.
If animal corpses are found, they should be handled as little as possible, using the correct protective equipment. Avoid contact with body fluids and follow local council instructions for disposal.
On the other hand, to avoid respiratory problems, it is recommended to use portable generators or motors outside homes and garages, trying to keep them away from doors, windows or grilles of homes.
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