Brazil: Dozens of leptospirosis cases confirmed in Rio Grande do Sul
In a follow-up on the situation in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil (HERE and HERE), The Central Laboratory of the State of Rio Grande do Sul (LACEN/RS) is analyzing more than 800 samples from suspected cases of leptospirosis.
Linked to the Ministry of Health of the State (SES), the service follows the increase in the number of suspected cases due to the long period of floods and increased exposure of the population to the disease.
The laboratory has two diagnoses: molecular biology (RT-PCR) and serological diagnosis. “Testing is available for all cases considered suspicious for exposed to the flood,” highlighted the head of LACEN/RS, Loeci Natalina Timm.
With data updated until May 27, 2023, Rio Grande do Sul had 1,588 notifications with 124 confirmed cases of leptospirosis. The State also recorded five deaths due to the disease in the towns of Venâncio Aires, Porto Alegre, Cachoeirinha and Travesseiro.
Additionally, there are nine other deaths under investigation.
Leptospirosis is an acute febrile infectious disease transmitted through direct or indirect exposure to the urine of infected animals (mainly rats). Contagion can occur from damaged skin or even intact skin if immersed for long periods in contaminated water, as well as through mucous membranes. The period for symptoms to appear can vary from one to 30 days. The main symptoms of leptospirosis are: fever, headache, weakness, body aches and chills.
When presenting symptoms, the recommendation is to seek a health service and report contact with risk exposure. The use of antibiotics, as per medical advice, is indicated at any stage of the disease, but their effectiveness is usually greater in the first week of the onset of symptoms. It is not necessary to wait for laboratory diagnosis to start treatment.