Leaping into lepto action

A series of talks across the region aims to help people combat a dangerous disease spread by animals to people.

Approximately 170 cases of Leptospirosis are reported across New Zealand each year, with transmission happening through contamination via contact with infected animal’s urine and contaminated environments entering eyes, nose, mouth and cuts in skin.

Rural Women Marlborough provincial vice president Glenda Ross says that while Leptospirosis is traditionally known as a farmer’s disease, New Zealand is a hotspot for the disease which requires continued management – so they’re hosting workshops to keep Marlburians safe and aware.

“Leptospirosis nationwide is the Rural Women NZ national project until June and over the past years we have contributed hundreds of thousands to researching vaccines and providing education programmes across the country”, says Glenda.

“The causes of transmission were found in cattle and pig urine, but more and more we’re finding that it’s becoming more common to be transferred through sheep, rats, mice and household pets into humans.”

Leptospirosis is a disease spread from infected, and generally unsymptomatic, animals that can cause flu-like symptoms of fever/chills, head and muscle aches, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea – while more serious cases lead to liver damage, brain swelling and organ failure.

New Zealand has one of the highest rates of the disease, with a key issue being that leptospirosis does not cause illness in host animals and is often dismissed as a general ‘flu while having much more dire side effects if left untreated.

With input from Massey University professor Jackie Benschop, alongside Nelson Marlborough District Health Board and local vet representatives, Glenda says all sides of the disease’s management will be addressed.

“For those at highest risk working with livestock, it means PPE, good hygiene, general health and safety and explaining risks to visitors, alongside the actual cattle vaccinations that vets have available.

“It’s a misconception that Leptospirosis is just affecting farmers though, as people can contract it through household pets and water, especially in more rural regions like Marlborough.

“But with basic controls on effluent and rodents, working with vets around animal health and vaccination and requesting a Lepto test if you’re feeling the flu and have been around animals, it helps everyone in the long run”.

Rural Women Marlborough Leptospirosis Roadshow

Tuesday 25^thFebruary – Ward Hall 9.30 – 12, Awatere Hall 1.30 – 4.30

Friday 28^thFebruary – Wairau Valley Hall 9.30 – 12, Woodbourne Tavern 1.30 – 4.30

Wednesday 19^thMarch – Havelock Hall – 9.30 – 12, Millers Rest Rai Valley – 1.30 – 4.30

Thursday 20^thMarch – Tua Marina Hall, 1.30 – 4.30

Tuesday 8^thApril – Waitaria Bay Hall, 12 to 4.30pm