Post by joe on Oct 26, 2010 23:44:45 GMT
Walkers often come into contact with water, be it on purpose or accidentally. Some walkers drink stream or spring water.
How safe is that water to drink, and how safe is it to carry on walking after being in water or to eat after contact with water.
Weil's disease is a killer. It claims 60 to 70 people each year and it's present in lakes, rivers and streams. Weils disease or Leptospirosis is found all over the world but more so in hot places. It's still common in the uk though.
The bacterium is carried by animals like rats and cattle and it can be spread to humans by close contact.
Animal urine can contaminate water. So the more stagnant or slow moving the water the greater the risk. Canals lakes and ponds are present a greater risk than fast moving water.
The bacterium can enter the body via cuts and abrasions of the skin, or through the thin lining of the throat, nose, mouth or eyes.
Tips on avoiding Weil's...
• Never drink water from a river or lake
• Only drink from your own water bottle
• Always shower after contact with the water
• Wash hands thoroughly and shower if necessary before eating or drinking
• Cover cuts and abrasions (including blisters) with waterproof dressings
• Wear suitable footwear when launching or retrieving a boat,
• Avoid immersion in, or contact with, water, particularly if there is an algal scum or bloom
• If contaminated water has been swallowed, consult a doctor
• Hose down all equipment after outings to remove any potential contamination
www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-11625889
How safe is that water to drink, and how safe is it to carry on walking after being in water or to eat after contact with water.
Weil's disease is a killer. It claims 60 to 70 people each year and it's present in lakes, rivers and streams. Weils disease or Leptospirosis is found all over the world but more so in hot places. It's still common in the uk though.
The bacterium is carried by animals like rats and cattle and it can be spread to humans by close contact.
Animal urine can contaminate water. So the more stagnant or slow moving the water the greater the risk. Canals lakes and ponds are present a greater risk than fast moving water.
The bacterium can enter the body via cuts and abrasions of the skin, or through the thin lining of the throat, nose, mouth or eyes.
Tips on avoiding Weil's...
• Never drink water from a river or lake
• Only drink from your own water bottle
• Always shower after contact with the water
• Wash hands thoroughly and shower if necessary before eating or drinking
• Cover cuts and abrasions (including blisters) with waterproof dressings
• Wear suitable footwear when launching or retrieving a boat,
• Avoid immersion in, or contact with, water, particularly if there is an algal scum or bloom
• If contaminated water has been swallowed, consult a doctor
• Hose down all equipment after outings to remove any potential contamination
www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-11625889