Weil’s Disease is an acute infectious disease spread by infected wild and domestic animals. Because the bacteria thrives in wet and moist conditions, all swimmers should aware about this infection.
Weil’s Disease also known as Leptospirosis is an acute, infectious disease. It is caused by different types of one bacteria of which there are over 200 known strains. Weil’s Disease is spread in the urine of infected animals (wild and domestic) and in water or soil contaminated with infected urine. The bacteria thrive in wet and moist conditions and can survive for months in stagnant water or wet soil.
CONTRACTING THE DISEASE
The infection enters through broken, grazed or cut skin especially on the hands and feet
and sometimes through the lining of the mouth, nose and eyes. It can also be picked up while wading or swimming in infected water.
SYMPTOMS:
Symptoms may include fever, headaches, chills, severe muscle pain in the calves and thighs, vomiting, diarrhoea and bloodshot eyes. Sometimes the fever may fluctuate and other symptoms such as a rash, jaundice, confusion, depression, kidney failure, liver failure and meningitis may occur. The incubation period is usually 10 days but can range from 4 to 19 days. If Symptoms persist please contact your G.P.
WHO IS AT RISK?
Effluent Treatment Plant Workers, Sewer Workers, Refuse collection and processing, Underground Cable Laying and Maintenance Workers, Miners, Farmers, Gardeners, Abattoir Workers, Animal Care Workers, People who use water for recreational purposes, Fishermen, Boating and Canoeing enthusiasts, Outdoor pursuits activities,
i.e. Hill walking, camping, Scouting Associations, Rescue Services, Fire Services,
Army and Garda Personnel.
PREVENTION:
Adhere to a rigid hygiene policy. Cover all cuts, scratches and abrasions with a waterproof dressing. Wear protective clothing especially gloves when handling soil, vegetation, animal feeds, tools or equipment that may be contaminated. Avoid touching mouth and nose. Food stuffs should not be consumed in the work area
SOLUTION:
USE FRIENDLY SYSTEMS’ APPROVED PRODUCTS
Spray all suspect work areas with VI RID. On completion of work decontaminate all protective clothing, tools and equipment with a solution of VIRID.
Sanitise hands thoroughly with Healthy Hands before eating and on completion of work.
For further information on Approved Products & Educational Seminars, contact:
Friendly Systems
Unit 10
Brookville Business Park
Ardee Road
Dundalk
County Louth
Tel: 042 9395504
Fax:042 9395501
friendlyire@nch.com
Website: www.friendlysystems.ie