BOSTON (WHDH) - The Boston Public Health Commission on Saturday confirmed a single case of human leptospirosis, a bacterial disease primarily spread by the urine of infected animals — including rats.
BPHC has issued a clinical advisory to Boston healthcare providers to assist in recognizing clinical symptoms of the disease and to report suspected cases, according to an official statement.
The bacteria, which is spread through the urine of infected animals, can infect humans and animals through contact with the contaminated urine, water, or soil. In a city setting, it’s most commonly spread through the rodent population and is easily spread to humans.
Common symptoms include high fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, vomiting, jaundice, red eyes, and abdominal pain, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Officials say the risk for exposure to leptospirosis is heightened in unsheltered living conditions.
No additional information was immediately available.
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