Leptospirosis is a zoonotic illness caused by the Leptospira bacteria. It can be contracted through abrasions, cuts in the skin, animal bites, breastfeeding, and sexual contact, although human-to-human cases are rare.
However, there is an increased risk for leptospirosis after flooding and rainfall, and the ff:
- Wading Swimming, Boating in floodwater
- Boat activity in freshwater (rivers, streams, lakes) that may be contaminated with animal urine
- Direct contact with animals
- Clearing brush
- Trekking
- Gardening
Symptoms of leptospirosis begin to show within 2-30 days, though in some cases, symptoms may manifest for a month or not at all.
There are two phases of the disease.
- Acute
Leptospires are present in the bloodstream for the illness’s first 2-14 days.
The symptoms of acute leptospirosis include:
- High fever
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
- Red eyes
- Chills
- Rashes
- Diarrhea
The illness progresses into this phase after 3-10 days.
This phase of leptospirosis symptoms are:
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain
- Difficulty in breathing
- Severe jaundice (Yellowing of the skin)
- Blood in urine
- Black poop (stool)
Why Should I Take A Leptospira IgG / IgM Test?
- Early Detection: Leptospirosis can start with flu-like symptoms, which might be mistaken for other illnesses. Testing helps confirm the diagnosis early on.
- Prevention of Complications: If untreated, leptospirosis can lead to severe complications such as kidney damage, liver damage, or even death. Early diagnosis allows timely treatment, often with antibiotics, to prevent these severe outcomes.
- Managing Outbreaks: Leptospirosis is common in areas with warmer climates and a large population of animals, especially rodents. Taking the test can help track the prevalence of the disease and effectively manage outbreaks.
- Identification of Sources: Testing can help identify potential sources of infection, which is helpful for public health measures and preventing future cases.
Lepto Test Procedure
- Your healthcare provider will examine your most accessible vein.
- Your healthcare provider will put the needle inside your vein and then draw blood from it.
- The sample will be sent to the laboratory for more analysis.
- Get the results.
- Have your doctor interpret the results.
Take Your Leptospira IgG/IgM Test With Medi Linx
Taking a leptospirosis test is crucial if you experience symptoms consistent with the disease or have had potential exposure to the bacteria. Book your test with Medi Linx Laboratory! Our comprehensive procedures include Urinalysis, Pre-Employment Medical exam, and Executive check-up. Book us online through our Virtual Lab, contact us at 0939-9227341, or visit our QC Lab on the 2nd floor of Avire Tower P. Tuazon Blvd. Project 4, Quezon City.