Avoid catching Leptospirosis

• Published date: 26 May 2023
• Publication title: Horowhenua Chronicle

It can be transmitted between animals and humans. Tests have shown that in Horowhenua we have Lepto in farm animals, on lifestyle blocks, dairy farms and on sheep and beef farms. In 2012 a study found Lepto positive animals on 97 per cent of sheep and beef farms. It is likely this disease is on your farm

The Lepto bacteria is stored in the kidneys and is spread via urine or through soil, water or food which has been contaminated by urine. Humans pick up the bacteria through their mucous membranes (nose mouth, eyes or skin). This makes farmers, freezing works processors, vet staff and anyone else who handles animals closely more prone to infection. When humans become infected with Leptospirosis they may become very sick and some can die. The effects of Lepto can be life long, causing severe fatigue. In farm animals, it often causes underlying issues and production loss like abortions, reduction of growth rates and...