Post disaster interim advice on the prevention of Leptospirosis in children
- Collective Name:Pediatric Infectious Disease Society of the Philippines, Inc.
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- MeSH:
Leptospirosis
- From:
Pediatric Infectious Disease Society of the Philippines Journal
2012;13(2):37-38
- CountryPhilippines
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
The purpose of this advice is to provide guidelines for physicians and parents on the prevention of leptospirosis in the pediatric age group. Leptospirosis is an infectious disease caused by pathogenic bacteria called leptospires. The main carriers of leptospires are animals such as rats, mice, dogs, cats and livestock. Human leptospiral infections can occur when mucus membranes and skin are contaminated by the urine of infected animals, or upon ingestion of contaminated food and water, all of which may occur when an individual is exposed to flood waters. Thus the occurrence of freshwater flooding after typhoons or increased rainfall can lead to an increased risk of leptospirosis. Initial symptoms of leptospirosis may range from mild to severe, or may even be fatal. Manifestations of the disease include: (1) a mild influenza-like illness; (2) Weil’s syndrome, characterized by jaundice, renal failure, hemorrhage, and arrhythmias; (3) meningitis/meningoencephalitis; or (4) pulmonary hemorrhage with respiratory failure. Case fatality rates range from 12-14% in the Philippines. In studies in India, case fatality rates were lower in the pediatric age group compared to adults.
- Full text:jo43_ja05.pdf
