Hawaii is a Known Place for Leptospirosis
Hawaii is a Known Place for Leptospirosis
Fifty percent of all human cases of Leptospirosis reported in the entire United States occur in Hawaii. Animal cases occur more commonly as well, particularly in wet parts of our islands. Animals (and humans) of any age can catch Leptospirosis by drinking contaminated water. Anywhere there are rats, mongooses, and/or fresh water, there is potential for Leptospirosis infection. Leptospirosis can affect every system in the body resulting in all kinds of illness including (but not limited to) liver failure, kidney failure, and seizures.
Leptospirosis is treatable with antibiotics. Patients have a better chance at recovery if diagnosis and treatment happen sooner rather than later. Not all animals survive even with treatment. Among the animals that do survive Leptospirosis, recovery can be slow and permanent kidney damage is common. Leptospirosis is zoonotic; infected dogs put the people who are in contact with them or their urine at increased risk for becoming infected.
Prevention involves not letting dogs drink from streams and puddles. Swimming in fresh water also poses risk. Awareness of the risks and symptoms, along with early detection and treatment, are the keys to reducing Lepto exposure, disease, and fatalities.
Vaccination should be considered as an aid to prevention for all dogs that regularly cross paths with rats, mongooses, or fresh water including rain puddles. Keep in mind, however, that vaccinated dogs can still get Leptospirosis. The current vaccines offer protection against some, but not all, of the strains of Lepto found in Hawaii. The most potent Lepto vaccine offers protection against 4 strains of Lepto. According to public health records for the state of Hawaii, 15 different strains of Lepto have been isolated from infected humans. Moreover, adverse effects to vaccinations are possible, particularly with Lepto vaccinations in very young puppies. And Lepto vaccinations tend to be shorter-lasting than other vaccinations. Protection is variable after 8 months. As with any vaccine, the benefits should be weighed against the risks, which will differ for each patient. (More on vaccine controversies.) Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best vaccination protocol for your canine companions.
As with any reference, these pages are not a substitute for veterinary care. Veterinary practice is an eyes, ears, nose, and hands-on profession which cannot be accomplished over the Internet.