Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis can be spread by contaminated soil and water during a hurricane. Protect yourself and your family from getting sick. Do not wade, swim, bathe, put your head in, or swallow floodwater. If you can’t avoid floodwater, wear waterproof clothing or boots and cover cuts with bandages.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects humans and animals. It is caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospira. In humans, it can cause a wide range of symptoms, some of which may be mistaken for other diseases. Some infected persons, however, may have no symptoms at all.
Without treatment, Leptospirosis can lead to kidney damage, meningitis (inflammation of the membrane around the brain and spinal cord), liver failure, respiratory distress, and even death.