Honolulu Star Advertiser The Hawaii Department of Health and Hawaiian Humane Society are urging residents and recovery workers to monitor for signs of leptospirosis in the aftermath of the “Kona low” storm floods.
Leptospirosis Opens in a new tab is a potentially serious bacterial illness that can affect both people and pets. It is caused by Leptospira, which is carried in the urine of infected animals, including rats, mice, mongoose, livestock, and dogs.
The bacteria enter the body through broken skin or through the mouth, nose, or eyes. People can also become exposed through direct contact with the urine, blood or tissues of an infected animal.
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