Northern Ireland's Chief Medical Officer, Dr Henrietta Campbell, has issued a warning about the dangers of possible leptospirosis infection for people using inland waterways.

Dr Campbell said: "Leptospirosis is an infection which can be caught by swimmers, windsurfers, canoeists and other people using freshwater waterways. Animals, mainly rats and cattle, spread the infection by fouling soil or water with infected urine. Farmers and other workers, such as sewage workers, who come in contact with cattle and rat urine, are also at risk, but may be more aware of the dangers.

"Thankfully it is an uncommon infection and there are only a few cases each year in Northern Ireland. However, there have been a small number of cases in the last few years associated with watersports on lakes and rivers."

Dr Campbell said that people using inland waterways for recreational purposes should take sensible precautions. She urged people, especially where rats are likely to have been in the area, to cover cuts and grazes, and, try not to allow their face to come into contact with the water.

She said: "Wearing protective clothing including boots and gloves also helps, and is especially important for workers exposed to leptospirosis.

"People who become unwell or suspect they have come into contact with the infection should seek medical help, mentioning the risk to their doctor, as early treatment with antibiotics can be important".

Emphasising that the risk from leptospirosis is small, Dr Campbell said: I do not want to discourage people from enjoying watersports or using our inland waterways, but it is very important that people are aware of the possibility of infection, especially as the summer season approaches."

Typical symptoms include sudden headache, aching muscles, red eyes and high temperature, usually starting one to two weeks after coming in contact with the infection. Kidney, liver and blood vessel damage may follow, occasionally causing death.

(SP)