Leptospirosis
General information
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic (transmitted from animals to humans) disease of worldwide distribution that is quite uncommon in Wisconsin.
It is caused by several strains of a bacterium called Leptospira. Sickness can range from mild to severe. The sickness is often characterized by the sudden onset of fever, chills, myalgias, and headache and may include conjunctivitis, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin rashes.
Less frequently, it can result in meningitis, liver and kidney dysfunction, pulmonary involvement, and mental confusion. Severe cases happen more commonly in older people and can result in death.
Leptospirosis fact sheet, P-42068
Leptospirosis information – CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
Information for providers
This is a Wisconsin disease surveillance category II disease:
- Report to the patient's local public health department electronically, through the Wisconsin Electronic Disease Surveillance System (WEDSS), by mail or fax using an Acute and Communicable Disease case report, F-44151 (Word) or by other means within 72 hours upon recognition of a case.
- Information on communicable disease reporting
Wisconsin case reporting and public health follow-up guidelines
- Case Reporting and Investigation Protocol (EpiNet): Leptospirosis, P-01917 (PDF)
- CDC case report form: Leptospirosis
Additional information for clinicians
CDC fact sheet Leptospirosis (PDF)
Questions about Leptospirosis? Contact us!
Phone: 608-267-9003 | Fax: 608-261-4976