On Tuesday, health officials from Howard County, Md., confirmed a case of rare bacterial disease called leptospirosis in a county resident, according to Fox Baltimore.
The infection is caused by the bacteria Leptospira and is spread through contact with the urine of infected animals, which can contaminate water and soil. Symptoms of leptospirosis include fever, headache, chills and muscle aches. The condition can become serious if left untreated.
According to Fox Baltimore, Maura J. Rossman, MD, health officer for the Howard County Health Department, said, "Personal hygiene such as frequent handwashing and taking the appropriate protective measures when near urine contaminated water will greatly reduce the risk of contracting leptospirosis or other bacterial infections."
To learn more about leptospirosis, click here.
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