NICARAGUA WARDEN MESSAGE

Leptospirosis: Symptoms & Treatment

Leptospirosis has been reported in Chinandega this past weekend. People who are working in flooded regions and having exposure to contaminated water are at risk for this disease.
Description
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that is commonly carried in animals. It usually infects humans through direct contact with contaminated water and soil, and most commonly occurs during periods of flooding. Bacteria can enter the human body through cut or abraded skin, mucous membranes and the eyes. Ingestion of contaminated water can lead to infection.
Symptoms
The symptoms can mimic other tropical diseases such as malaria, dengue fever and typhoid and include fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. These symptoms can worsen into jaundice (yellow skin), kidney failure and hemorrhage if not treated early in the course of the infection. The incubation period usually is 7 days, with a range of 2-29 days.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made by the presenting symptoms, risk of exposure (exposure to flood areas) as well as a confirmatory laboratory test called microgglutination (MAT). There are also several quick rapid, simple serologic test kits that are available for quick diagnosis as well. This laboratory test is available at any large medical facility in Nicaragua.
Prevention
People working in exposure (flood) regions should wear protective clothing, covering cuts and abrasions with water proof dressings and minimizing contact with potentially contaminated water. Doxycycline 100mg taken orally once or twice daily should be taken 1-2 days prior to working in the flooded area and continued during the time of exposure to contaminated water. This medication should be taken with food to avoid stomach upset. Also, sun protection is VERY important as taking the medication causes more sensitivity to the sun and one can easily suffer from sunburn. Pregnant women should NOT take this medication.
Treatment
People with symptoms should seek immediate medical attention. Treatment with antibiotics (penicillin, amoxicillin, doxycycline) and should be started as early as possible. Follow-up with an Infectious Disease Specialist is strongly advised.

The U.S. Embassy is located at Kilometer 4 1/2 (4.5) Carretera Sur, Managua; telephone (505) 266-6010 or 268-0123; after hours telephone (505) 266-6038.
Non-emergency services for American citizens are available Monday through Friday, 1:00 to 3:00 PM.
U.S. Embassy Managua Consular Section
Km 4 ½ Carretera Sur, Managua
Tel: 505-268-0123
Fax: 505-266-9943
Email: ACS.Managua@state.gov and ConsularManagua@state.gov
WEB SITE: http://nicaragua.usembassy.gov