Human cases of leptospirosis, while rarely reported in New York City, have been increasing over time. The NJDOH reminds health care providers to consider leptospirosis in patients with clinical signs and symptoms consistent with leptospirosis. Clinically, there is a wide spectrum of illness. Symptoms may include fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, vomiting, diarrhea, cough, conjunctival suffusion, jaundice, and sometimes a rash. The incubation period is usually 5–14 days, with a range of 2–30 days. If not treated, kidney failure, meningitis, liver damage, and respiratory distress can occur. The New Jersey Department of Health requests healthcare providers report suspect and confirmed cases to the local health department where the patient resides.
Please find the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Health Alert attached for more information.
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