An outbreak of «rat disease» has begun in Latvia. A doctor has addressed the public 0 83

Rodents have multiplied

Leptospirosis is an infectious disease that is transmitted to humans from animals, primarily from rodents. This year, 25 cases of the disease have been registered in Latvia — six times more than the average over the past ten years, when about four cases were recorded annually.

The ages of the patients range from 25 to 85 years, with most of them being pre-retirement and retirement age individuals (average age 63 years). All patients were treated in the hospital, several of them ended up in intensive care, and one case resulted in death.

Experts cite the spread of rodents as the main factor for the sharp increase in the number of cases. The chief physician of the Infectology Center, Professor Baiba Rozentāle, emphasizes: "Undoubtedly, rats are the primary concern. It is clear that we need to look at how cities are managing rodent control — whether it is being done or not. And we do see them — they are present and roaming the streets."

Epidemiologist at the Disease Prevention and Control Center (SPKC) Sigita Geida notes that most patients either saw rodents or acknowledge that their presence is possible in residential areas, utility rooms, or near water bodies.

The disease is mainly carried by rats.

The pathogen can enter the human body through the consumption of fruits and vegetables contaminated with rodent urine or by drinking contaminated water. The risk of infection also exists when working in garden plots if hands are not thoroughly washed afterward, or if the pathogen enters the body through minor skin injuries. Since the disease has a high mortality risk, prevention is extremely important.

Baiba Rozentāle emphasizes: "We wash everything! We wash our hands before eating, we wash fruits and vegetables, we wash meat and subject it to heat treatment." It is essential to destroy products that have been contaminated by rodents. In residential buildings, especially apartment complexes, managers are required to conduct rodent control at least once a quarter.

Symptoms similar to flu

The initial stage of the disease resembles the flu — fever, headache, muscle aches, and weakness are possible. Later, as the disease progresses, jaundice of the skin and eyes may appear, as well as skin hemorrhages. These symptoms indicate a transition of the disease into a serious phase.

Since the manifestations of leptospirosis are similar to the symptoms of many other infections, it is important to start the correct treatment in a timely manner. The sooner the diagnosis is made and therapy is started, the higher the likelihood of recovery, especially if the person is aware of contact with rodents or contaminated environments.

The Riga municipality notes that while rats are occasionally observed in the capital, it cannot be claimed that their numbers have increased. Authorities emphasize that the most effective measures against rodents are closed garbage containers, functioning communication systems, and regular rodent control of buildings.