Rat-Borne Disease Reported In Berkeley, Health Officials Warn
Patch • • health
Key Points:
- Leptospirosis, a potentially deadly but treatable rat-borne disease, has been detected in rats and at least two dogs near a homeless encampment on Harrison Street in Berkeley, California.
- Berkeley Health Officer Noemi Doohan has declared a red zone around the affected area and advised encampment residents to relocate immediately to reduce the risk of infection and allow for sanitation efforts.
- The disease spreads through contact with urine from infected animals and contaminated water or soil, with symptoms ranging from flu-like signs to severe kidney or liver failure; untreated cases can be fatal.
- Berkeley health officials plan to clear the encampments and disinfect the area using soap and bleach, while UC Berkeley has issued precautions for nearby residents to avoid exposure,
