Rat-Borne Illness, Leptospirosis, Continues Spread in NYC

Photo byNick FewingsonUnsplash

Leptospirosis is a disease that is spread by bacteria found in the urine of Norway Rats, also called Brown Rats. If left untreated, the illness can cause kidney failure and liver damage.

In an April 12 health advisory, the city's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene said six cases have been reported this year. Twenty-four cases were reported in 2023, the highest number in a single year.

HOW LEPTOSPIROSIS IS TRANSMITTED

Usually, the bacteria enter the body through the skin, especially if a cut or a scratch breaks the skin.

Additionally, it may enter through the mucous membranes in the nose, mouth, or eyes.

Person-to-person transmission is rare.

SYMPTOMS

It causes a broad range of symptoms, many of which are interchangeable with those of other illnesses.

High fever, chills, nausea, diarrhea, rash, headache, jaundice, and muscle aches are a few of these symptoms.

If an individual has been exposed to a rat-infested area and exhibits these symptoms, consult your health provider.

WHO IS MOST AT RISK

Sanitation workers in New York City have been the largest single group to have contracted the illness. Five of the 24 people infected by leptospirosis last year were garbage collectors in New York City.

Union President Harry Nespoli stated, "Our sanitationmen and women come in every day to keep the city clean. They deserve to know they and their families will be protected if they get sick on the job," he said. "Leptospirosis is infecting an outsize share of frontline sanitation workers. We urge the state to pass Assembly Bill A9021 and provide benefits for sanitation workers, and their families, if they are permanently injured or killed by this job-related disease."