Rogues' Gallery

Weil's disease, Leptospirosis

A bacterium that sneaks into the body through cuts, abrasions, and sometimes through the eyes, nose and mouth, after direct contact with urine from infected animals or through contaminated water, soil or food.

Found in the urine of infected animals (e.g. pigs, mice, rats, cattle, dogs and humans), loiters in kidneys, loves warm, moist climates.

Causes the disease leptospirosis. Symptoms include headache, fever, bleeding, muscle pain, chills, red eyes and vomiting. Without treatment, can lead to kidney and liver damage, meningitis and even death.

Take care in warm moist climates including contact with soil and vegetation. Do not swim if you have cuts or abrasions. Do not swallow water when swimming. Avoid water contact after floods or cyclones. Do not drink untreated water.