leptospirosis

leptospirosis , febrile disease caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospirae. The disease occurs in dogs, cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, and horses and is transmissible to humans. It is most common where the climate is warm and humid, soils are alkaline, and there is abundant surface water. The source of infection in farm animals is usually through pastures, drinking water, or feed, when contaminated by infected urine, and is often a work-related risk for farmers, sewer, or abattoir workers. Infection may also occur as a result of contact with infected uterine discharges and aborted fetuses. In cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats, the disease is characterized by fever, depression, anemia, and abortion. Horses develop an ocular infection. In dogs the disease causes a severe kidney infection. Control of leptospirosis depends on the elimination of carrier animals, appropriate hygienic measures, and vaccination of susceptible animals.

leptospirosis (Weil's disease) (lep-toh-spy-roh-sis) n. an infectious disease, caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospira (especially L. icterohaemorrhagiae), that is transmitted from rodents, dogs, and other mammals to humans. The disease begins with a high fever and headache and may affect the liver (causing jaundice) or kidneys (resulting in renal failure); in some cases meningitis may develop.

Leptospira (lep-toh-spy-ră) n. a genus of spirochaete bacteria, commonly bearing hooked ends. L. icterohaemorrhagiae a parasite that is the main causative agent of leptospirosis.