Leptospirosis Surge in Puerto Rico: A Study on Incidence and Uncommon Presentations Following Hurricane Fiona

Leptospirosis Surge in Puerto Rico: A Study on Incidence and Uncommon Presentations Following Hurricane Fiona

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Introduction: Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira spirochetes.This zoonotic disease is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with contaminated water or soil, often from the urine of infected animals.While it is more common in tropical regions, the incidence of leptospirosis has increased globally, particularly following flooding events.

This disease is endemic in Puerto Rico.The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of Hurricane Fiona on the surveillance, treatment, and outcomes of leptospirosis cases.Methods: This retrospective cohort study examined leptospirosis patients following Hurricane Fiona, focusing on the period from September 2022 to August 2024.

Data were collected from hospitals, national, and public health organizations, POMEGRANATE JUICE alongside an analysis of published medical literature.We evaluated trends in leptospirosis incidence before and after the hurricane, comparing clinical data across different age groups and assessing treatment outcomes.Results: A total of 2,666 cases were reported, with hospitalized patients having a mean age of 50.

Among these, 102 had confirmed positive laboratory results, while 541 were suspected cases based on clinical symptoms.The elderly cohort exhibited lower incidences of classic symptoms such as myalgia, vomiting, headache, and dyspnea, but many presented with atypical symptoms and experienced poorer outcomes compared to younger patients.After Hurricane Fiona, there was an increase in cases linked to exposure to potentially contaminated water, coinciding with a rise in the number of individuals being tested.

These factors likely contributed to the overall surge in reported cases.Conclusion: Enhanced surveillance, combined with proactive outreach to healthcare providers after flooding events, is Gas Range Cooker crucial for improving the identification of leptospirosis cases.This strategy can help inform clinicians about the importance of early treatment initiation and guide public health messaging to prevent exposure to contaminated floodwaters.

Additionally, advanced age emerged as a significant predictor of adverse outcomes.A comprehensive understanding of the diverse clinical manifestations and risk factors associated with leptospirosis is essential for healthcare providers aiming to improve patient outcomes.