Weil's Disease 

The national rat population is increasing and between 50 and 60% of rats carry and excrete the bacterium Leptopira ictero-haemorrhagiae in their urine.

If your club operates in freshwater then it is important that your members are aware of the risks of Leptospirosis.  

Leptospira bacteria is often carried by rats and excreted in their urine thus contaminating water and muddy soil. The bacteria can enter the human body through cuts, grazes, mouth or mucous membranes such as those which line the nose and ears.  

Infection with the bacterium causes an illness which has similar symptoms to flu – temperature, muscle aches and nausea. In mild cases these symptoms can be easily treated and patients will likely recover in a few weeks. In England and Wales an average of 40 cases of leptospirosis are reported each year however very few of these go on to develop the more serious Weil’s Disease which can be fatal; Since 1996, there have only been four deaths from Weil’s Disease.

Although most cases of leptospirosis are mild it is important that water users are aware of the risks and can recognise the symptoms. Sailors, boardsailors, canoeists, oarsmen, swimmers and fishermen are at risk in any area with a population of rats.  Any skin wound or blister, old or new, may be infected if immersed in water polluted with the bacterium.  

If you start to feel ill after coming into contact with water that could be contaminated with leptospira then the best approach is to consult your doctor. It is vital that the doctor be told of any water borne activity you have been involved in as the symptoms are easily confused with those of flu and if you have an otherwise ‘clean occupation’ the possibility of Weil’s Disease may be overlooked in the early stages.  

The RYA has developed some guidance on leptospirosis and how to limit the risk of infection for recreational boaters which you can download here. Further information is also available from www.leptospirosis.org  and if you have any questions please contact environment@rya.org.uk