Leptospirosis: Bacterial Zoonotic Disease

Category: Science → Health → Infectious Diseases

Cause

Leptospirosis is caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospira.

They are Gram-negative spirochetes.

Transmission

Usually through:

  • Urine of infected animals

  • Contaminated water

  • Contaminated soil

Rodents, especially rats, are important reservoirs.

Risk Factors

Risk increases after:

  • Floods

  • Heavy rainfall

  • Waterlogging

  • Agricultural exposure

Symptoms

Can range from mild fever to severe disease involving:

  • Kidney

  • Liver

  • Brain/meninges

  • Lungs

UPSC Key Pointer

Leptospirosis → Leptospira → animal urine → contaminated water/soil → zoonosis