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The state also has four deaths under investigation
The Central Laboratory of the State of Rio Grande do Sul (Lacen/RS) is analyzing more than 800 samples from suspected cases of leptospirosis. To date there have been 1,072 notifications and 54 confirmed cases of the disease. Additionally, the state reports four cases of deaths and four additional deaths under investigation.
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Connected to the Department of Health (SES), the Lacen service monitors the growth in the number of events due to the long period of floods and the increase in exposure to the disease by the population. The laboratory has two diagnostics: molecular biology (RT-PCR) and serological diagnosis. Both tests are carried out free of charge.
“The tests are available free of charge for all cases considered suspicious and exposed to floods”, underlines the head of Lacen/RS, Loeci Natalina Timm. The institute is fully operational and receives samples from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm.
The RT-PCR method detects bacteria present in the patient’s body and is recommended for samples collected within the first seven days of the onset of symptoms.
Serological diagnosis detects the antibodies produced by the patient’s body in response to the infection caused by the Leptospira bacterium. Serological testing is the option of choice for testing samples from patients who have experienced symptoms for seven days or more.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is an acute febrile infectious disease transmitted through direct or indirect exposure to the urine of infected animals (primarily rats). Infection can occur from damaged skin or even from intact skin, if immersed for long periods in contaminated water, as well as through the mucous membranes.
The period in which symptoms appear can vary from one to 30 days. The main symptoms are: fever, headache, weakness, muscle pain (especially in the calf) and chills.
When symptoms are felt, the recommendation is to contact a health service and report exposure to risk. The use of antibiotics, according to medical advice, is indicated at any stage of the disease, but their effectiveness is usually greatest in the first week after the onset of symptoms. It is not necessary to wait for laboratory diagnosis to start treatment.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
