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==Description==

==Description==

Leptospirosis is an important zoonosis, affecing humans as well as animals. The disease can be caused by infection with a number of different serovars of the bacteria ''Leptospira interrogans''. In general infection with a host adapted strain results in subclinical infection, intermittent shedding of the organism with the animal acting as a reservoir for infection. Infection with non host adapted strains results in clinical disease.  

'''Leptospirosis''' is an important zoonosis, affecing humans as well as animals. The disease can be caused by infection with a number of different serovars of the bacteria ''Leptospira interrogans''. In general infection with a host adapted strain results in subclinical infection, intermittent shedding of the organism with the animal acting as a reservoir for infection. Infection with non host adapted strains results in clinical disease.  

   

   

Transmission is via urine of affected animals; the organism gains entry at mucous membranes, broken skin, bite wounds and through ingestion of infected material. The organism can remain viable for weeks in damp conditions, rodents and other mammals act as a reservoir of infection. The incubation period is 2-12 days

Transmission is via urine of affected animals; the organism gains entry at mucous membranes, broken skin, bite wounds and through ingestion of infected material. The organism can remain viable for weeks in damp conditions, rodents and other mammals act as a reservoir of infection. The incubation period is 2-12 days, after which dogs become lethargic, pyrexic and anorexic. The disease often progresses with renal and hepatic involvement.

 

   

   

Vaccination against serovars ''canicola'' and ''icterohaemorrhagica'' has greatly reduced the prevalence and incidence of disease in the UK but in some areas the disease is re-emerging as owners decide not to vaccinate due to the reduced risk. Serovars ''pomona'' and ''grippotyphosa'' are becoming important.

Vaccination against serovars ''canicola'' and ''icterohaemorrhagica'' has greatly reduced the prevalence and incidence of disease in the UK but in some areas the disease is re-emerging as owners decide not to vaccinate due to the reduced risk. Serovars ''pomona'' and ''grippotyphosa'' are becoming important.