The state Department of Health has issued a public warning of exposure to leptospirosis when in contact with flood waters caused by the heavy rainfall yesterday.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease spread through the urine of infected animals, such as rodents, wild pigs, dogs and livestock.

The bacteria can contaminate freshwater and mud and can enter a person through the mouth, nose, eyes and open wounds.

During flood damage cleanup, officials advise that wounds should be covered with waterproof dressings, and protective gear such as gloves, boots, waders, aprons, goggles and heavy pants should be worn. In addition, washing the skin with soap and water after exposure helps reduce the risk of leptospirosis infection.

"Because leptospirosis is endemic in our freshwater streams in Hawai'i, heavy rains especially related to flooding and overflowing waterways increase the risk of exposure to leptospirosis bacteria," said Dr. Sarah Park, chief of the DOH Disease Outbreak Control Division. "We did see two cases of illness from leptospirosis after the heavy flooding in Manoa in October 2004."

Symptoms of leptospirosis can include fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, body aches, and vomiting. These flu-like symptoms generally appear seven to 14 days after contact with contaminated fresh water and can result in mild to severe illness.

Without treatment, in some cases, leptospirosis may lead to hospitalization or death. It is recommended that people with these symptoms see their doctor right away and tell the doctor about any recent contact with freshwater or animals.

For additional information on leptospirosis go to the Department of Health website at: http://hawaii.gov/health/about/reports/leptobrochure.pdf.