Residents in Berkeley, California, are facing a public health alert following the discovery of leptospirosis, a potentially fatal bacterial disease, in a homeless encampment near Codornices Creek. The outbreak primarily affects dogs, with local health authorities urging pet owners to take precautionary measures. The alert highlights the risks posed by the disease, which is transmitted through the urine of infected animals, particularly rats.
Authorities identified leptospirosis in several rats and at least two dogs near the encampment on Harrison Street. This area has become a focal point for public health concerns after recent heavy rainfall created conditions conducive to the bacteria’s survival. While there have been no reported human infections so far, the disease poses significant dangers to both pets and people, especially those exposed to contaminated water or soil.
Understanding Leptospirosis and Its Risks
Leptospirosis is caused by the Leptospira bacteria, which can thrive in soil and stagnant water for up to a month. According to Dr. Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease physician at UCSF, dogs are at a heightened risk because they often come into contact with puddles that may contain the bacteria. “Dogs don’t avoid puddles the way people do,” she explained. This behavior increases their chances of exposure to contaminated environments.
Transmission occurs when contaminated water or soil contacts cuts, eyes, the mouth, or mucous membranes. Local health officials have designated the Harrison Street area as a “red zone” and are urging residents of the encampment to relocate at least one-third of a mile away. This move aims to facilitate cleanup efforts and rat eradication to protect public health.
In response to the outbreak, the city has initiated environmental testing and posted warnings in the area. Pet owners are strongly advised to vaccinate their animals against leptospirosis. Additionally, owners of free-roaming cats are encouraged to consider vaccination, while all pet owners should prevent their animals from drinking potentially contaminated water.
Symptoms and Recommended Actions
Anyone who has spent time in the affected area and begins to experience flu-like symptoms—such as fever, chills, headache, sore muscles, or red eyes—should seek medical attention immediately and inform healthcare providers of possible exposure to leptospirosis. For dogs, symptoms may include vomiting, jaundice, or changes in urination, which necessitate urgent veterinary care.
Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, another infectious disease expert at UCSF, emphasized the importance of awareness regarding the conditions that facilitate the spread of the disease. “Wherever you get rats urinating and then flooding or rain, there’s potential for exposure,” he stated, highlighting the risks associated with the recent weather patterns.
Public health officer Dr. Noemi Doohan reiterated the precautions that both people and pets should take. “Neither dogs nor people should wade in, or drink from, nearby water, mud, puddles, or Codornices Creek,” she advised. “Provide clean water for your pets, and keep them away from sick or dead animals.”
Next Steps in Public Health Response
The city of Berkeley is conducting an ongoing public health investigation, anticipating that cleanup and rodent eradication efforts will take at least 30 days—the typical lifespan of leptospirosis in soil. The city explained that eradicating rats requires multiple cycles of baiting, removing carcasses, and re-baiting over a sustained period.
As the situation develops, local health officials are committed to monitoring the outbreak and ensuring the safety of residents and their pets. By increasing awareness and encouraging preventive measures, Berkeley aims to mitigate the risks associated with this dangerous bacterial disease.
