An outbreak of leptospirosis keeps Coronel Vidal on alert
The community of Colonel Vidalin the Buenos Aires party of Mar Chiquitalives days of anguish due to an outbreak of leptospirosis. The situation became even more dramatic after the death of Ernestina Trinidad Mora, a 2-year-old girl, who died last Sunday from what was initially thought to be a serious case of the disease. The girl had been in contact with the virus present in dogs in the area, which had already tested positive.
The girl’s symptoms: fever, vomiting and a wrong diagnosis
On Thursday, November 7, Ernestina began to present symptoms of fever, vomiting and general malaise. Her mother, Tatiana Lescano, decided to take her to the Eustaquio Aristizábal Municipal Hospital. However, the minor was treated without a proper check-up, and the diagnosis was only a simple fever, for which she was prescribed ibuprofen. “They never told me that there were cases of leptospirosis in the neighborhood. They didn’t even check her,” denounced the girl’s mother, highlighting the possible medical negligence.
The tragedy of a late diagnosis
On Sunday, Ernestina’s symptoms worsened drastically. “He looked at me badly, spoke strange things, and started shaking. “We thought he was delirious,” Tatiana said through tears. Within a few hours, the girl died in her mother’s arms. The situation was even more serious when it was discovered that the girl had had symptoms compatible with leptospirosis, the same disease that is affecting the dogs in the Olga Albarracín neighborhood, where the family resides.
The intervention of the prosecutor’s office and the results of the autopsy
The complaint of malpractice filed by Ernestina’s mother caused the Mar Chiquita prosecutor’s office, under the supervision of prosecutor Ramiro Anchou, to initiate an investigation. An autopsy was ordered, although local authorities have already dismissed suspicions about a possible link between the death and the leptospirosis outbreak. “Forensic studies have determined that the cause of death is not related to the disease that affects the local dogs,” reported the municipality of Mar Chiquita.
What is leptospirosis?
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease transmitted by the urine of infected animals, such as rodents and dogs. The bacteria can survive in humid and contaminated environments, increasing the risk of contagion in areas with flooding or in contact with stagnant water. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, muscle pain and diarrhea. In severe cases, leptospirosis can cause damage to the kidneys, liver, and respiratory system.
The outbreak of leptospirosis in Coronel Vidal
In Coronel Vidal, it has been detected that at least 20 dogs are infected with the leptospirosis bacteria, which has generated great concern among neighbors. Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation to prevent the disease from spreading to humans. In parallel, the population is advised to avoid contact with contaminated water and take rigorous hygiene measures in areas where the presence of the bacteria has been identified.
Prevention and recommendations: Prevention measures against the outbreak
To avoid the spread of leptospirosis, it is recommended to avoid contact with potentially contaminated water, such as those found in puddles, lagoons or rivers. In addition, it is recommended to use gloves and rubber boots when carrying out tasks in wet terrain or in areas with a high presence of rodents. In rural areas, authorities suggest vaccinating farm animals and keeping grounds free of debris.
