Causes of Weil's Disease

What Causes Weil’s Disease?

Weil’s Disease is caused by an infection from the Leptospira bacteria (hence the name of its early stage: Leptospirosis). There are over 20 different types, or strains, of these bacteria, of which around half can cause disease in humans. Among these, some of the most prevalent are Leptospira Interrogans, Leptospira Borgpetersenii and Leptospira Santarosai; these need humidity in which to survive, so stagnant water and soil can be ideal places for them to thrive.

The bacteria can be killed by temperatures over 50 degrees centigrade, (122 Fahrenheit), with strong alcohol (over 70%) and by a range of acids and detergents, but in order to kill them, they must first be identified – and that can be tricky due to the huge range of places they can reach and reside.

The disease is most commonly spread by animals; in particular rats and rodents, but also dogs, deer, pigs, cattle, sheep, rabbits and even hedgehogs. Some birds and reptiles have been found to carry a form of the disease, but that type is not transmitted to humans.

When animals ingest the Leptospira bacteria they circulate around their bloodstream and then lodge in the kidneys. As a result, each time the infected animal passes urine, the bacteria is passed on – although the host animal may have no idea it is infected, as itself shows no symptoms or issues from the bacteria. That urine can then contaminate water or soil which it is in contact with, spreading the bacteria further.

Humans are normally infected by the bacteria when they come into contact with such contaminated water or soil, either by swallowing the water or through skin contact – perhaps through an open wound or getting splashed in the face. Prolonged time spent in contaminated water increases the risk of infection although the bacteria is unlikely to penetrate healthy skin.

The bacteria can also be spread by touching the body of an infected animal, or being in contact with its waste products or bodily fluids.

Pregnant women should be particularly wary about spending time in potentially dangerous areas as the bacteria can cause serious issues for unborn and new-born babies and infants.

Once the bacteria arrives in the human body; either through ingestion, an open wound, or into the nose, ears or eyes, it then spreads into the bloodstream from where it has access to the whole body. In some cases the body will fight off the infection and symptoms can be minimal, but if the dose is strong, or the body is weak, then the bacteria have a stronger chance of multiplication and swift medical intervention is the best course of action.

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