New York City Health Officials Issue Warning About Increase in Bacterial Illness Spread by Rat Urine
New York City health officials have issued a warning about an increase in cases of a bacterial illness spread by rat urine. According to reports, there have been 24 cases reported in 2023, making it the highest number of cases for any year. While only six cases have been reported so far this year, the numbers are trending upward.
The cases are largely associated with exposure to materials contaminated with rat urine from the Norway rat. The disease can cause various symptoms including fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, vomiting, and diarrhea. If left untreated, it can lead to kidney failure, meningitis, liver damage, and respiratory distress.
From 2001 to 2023, the Bronx had the most cases of the illness, followed by Manhattan. Six deaths have been reported during the same time period. However, person-to-person transmission of the illness is considered rare.
The bacteria responsible for the illness, Leptospira, can die quickly in dry heat or freezing temperatures. However, excessive rain and warm temperatures associated with climate change may support the persistence of leptospires in NYC.
Mayor Eric Adams has blamed the city’s rat infestation for people leaving the city. According to a study conducted by a pest company, there are an estimated 3 million rats in New York City. Mayor Adams has stated that efforts are being made to address the rat infestation in the city.
Health officials are urging residents to take precautions to avoid exposure to materials contaminated with rat urine and to seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms of the bacterial illness. With the number of cases on the rise, it is important for the public to remain vigilant and take steps to protect themselves from this potentially deadly disease.
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