Preventing Leptospirosis after Hurricanes or Flooding

Key points

  • During hurricanes or heavy rain, urine (pee) from infected animals can contaminate soil and water and make people sick.
  • Cases of leptospirosis can increase after hurricanes or floods if people have direct contact with contaminated water.
  • You can take steps to reduce your risk of leptospirosis after flooding events.
a street is flooded after a hurricane

Why this matters

Cases of leptospirosis can increase after hurricanes or floods. During hurricanes or heavy rain, urine (pee) from animals can contaminate soil and water sources like creeks and lakes. Without access to running water, people may drink or bathe in contaminated water. They may also wade in flood waters with cuts in their skin.

During and after a flood, people can get leptospirosis by:

  • Touching water and soil with urine or body fluids from infected animals
  • Touching urine or body fluids from an infected animal
  • Eating food or drinking water contaminated by urine

Spotlight

For 2-30 days after a flood, look out for the signs and symptoms of leptospirosis. See a doctor immediately if you think you may have leptospirosis.

Protecting yourself after a flood

  • After flooding, make water safe to drink by boiling it or using a chemical treatment like Aquatabs.
  • Cover cuts or scratches with waterproof bandages or other coverings that seal out water.
  • Don't get into, bathe, or swallow floodwater or any fresh water source that may have animal urine in it.
  • Wear waterproof protective clothing and shoes near water or soil that may be contaminated with animal urine.
  • Keep rodents away by putting food, water, and trash in closed containers, and trapping rodents.

Resources

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Content Source:
; National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID)