(TheConservativeTimes.org) – The New York Department of Health and Mental Hygiene put out an advisory after multiple cases of leptospirosis have been reported. Leptospirosis is an infection that is often associated with the exposure of rat urine and the cases have been seen in New York City.
Last year there were twenty-four cases which is higher than any other year previously. However, with this said, in just the first quarter of this year, there have been six reports. Experts said that the average age of those infected was fifty years old and the majority of people were coming from the Bronx, followed by cases from Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island.
Those who may be suffering from Leptospirosis can experience hepatic failure, pulmonary issues, headache, chills, muscle aches, vomiting, jaundice, rash, and a cough. Typically once a human is infected, they will need to quarantine for five to fourteen days, however, it may last for up to thirty days. If the infection isn’t treated this could lead to meningitis, liver damage, kidney failure, and respiratory issues.
“In NYC, locally acquired cases typically have a history of a residential or occupational exposure to rat urine or environments and materials contaminated with rat urine,” health officials said.
They continued, “Person-to-person transmission is rare. The NYC Health Department conducts inspections and works with property owners to remediate rat conditions if indicated.”
Health officials said that the weather could have extended the life of this infection whereas it usually would die in high heat or freezing temperatures. Humidity, warmer days, and even rain can help that infection to linger on instead of dying off.
The New York City Health Department has said that cases of this infection need to be reported to them within twenty-four hours and more information can be found on their website.
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