NewsDesk  @infectiousdiseasenews

Officials in New York City report investigating multiple dog deaths possibly linked to leptospirosis, which is linked to rats, in the Williamsburg area of Brooklyn.

According to a Facebook post by Council Member Lincoln Restler: We have received reports of multiple dog fatalities in Williamsburg.

The reports to our office indicate that dogs played at McCarren Dog Run before becoming sick. I have spoken with the Department of Health, which is actively investigating these cases to confirm if leptospirosis was the cause of death. We have also contacted the Parks Department, which will be delivering mulch this week. We will stay closely in touch with City agencies to address this situation swiftly and thoroughly.

While we are gathering more information about the situation at McCarren Dog Run and identifying both immediate and long-term solutions, we encourage you to talk to your vet about the lepto vaccine for your dog.

New York City reports 14 leptospirosis cases, one death in 2021

Restler also noted that NYC Parks  is doing emergency repairs to improve dog run drainage & install rodent resistant garbage cans. These are interim solutions. Safe pest extermination happening w/ the NYC Health Department.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease. People (and animals) can get infected when they are exposed to the urine of infected animals. They can also get infected from water, soil, or food contaminated with infected animal urine. Leptospirosis bacteria can enter the body through skin or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth).

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