Zakynthos: Suspected fatal case of leptospirosis

The cause of death of a person who was reportedly infected with leptospirosis is being investigated through tests of biological fluids.

According to reliable information from NEWS 24/7, the individual is a 74-year-old from South Zakynthos, who had leptospirosis and had been hospitalized in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Zakynthos Hospital.

However, to determine the exact cause of death, laboratory tests of blood and urine need to be completed, which are expected by Wednesday afternoon. As reported by hospital sources, the individual may have had an underlying condition, as several other patients who received the same treatment have recovered.

Reports of Leptospirosis Outbreak in Zakynthos
According to ermisnews.gr, the situation in Zakynthos is concerning, as leptospirosis cases have been on the rise in recent weeks, with a dangerous increase in the number of rodents.

Local authorities are being urged to take immediate action and strengthen rodent control programs to protect public health.

According to information from ermisnews.gr, several residents of Zakynthos have contracted this dangerous infection but have recovered with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Notably, Zakynthos is reported to have the highest number of leptospirosis cases in the Ionian Islands and may even rank first in Greece.

“This situation is reminiscent of the visit by the EODY team to the island a few years ago when there were incidents with victims of the disease. Despite continuous calls and promises to enhance rodent control programs, there has been no significant progress,” the site states.

What is Leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is an infectious disease caused by bacteria of the Leptospira genus, primarily transmitted through rodents, which are the main carriers.

The bacteria are excreted through the urine of animals and can contaminate water and soil.

The first symptoms of leptospirosis typically appear two weeks after exposure to the bacteria and resemble symptoms of a common cold or flu.

However, in some cases, the disease can develop into severe conditions such as sepsis and death.

Main Symptoms Include:

• Fever and chills
• Bronchitis and pneumonia
• Headache
• Fatigue and weakness
• Jaundice and kidney damage
• Nosebleeds and subcutaneous hemorrhage

How Leptospirosis is Transmitted

Leptospirosis is primarily transmitted through infected animals that excrete the bacteria through their urine.

Humans can become infected through contact with contaminated water or soil or through breaks in the skin or mucous membranes. Human-to-human transmission is rare but can occur through sexual contact or breastfeeding.

The incubation period for the bacteria can last from 3 to 20 days, depending on the nature of the infection and the amount of bacteria the person was exposed to.