Recently, we traced a chain email warning about the dangers of drinking from cans. The story describes an elderly woman who died from leptospirosis, a bacteria found in rat urine. The only way to contract this bacteria is by drinking from cans with dried rat urine on them. The solution is to drink from a glass or use a straw.

What is leptospirosis?

It is an acute infectious disease of domestic and wild animals that can also be transmitted to humans. In humans, initial symptoms include common infection syndromes (nausea, fever, abdominal pain), but in severe cases, bloody sputum and even sudden loss of consciousness can occur. The disease is caused by bacteria commonly found in sewage water. Additionally, leptospirosis is found in rat and mouse urine. It can be transmitted through water, food, or simply by touching a contaminated object.

In pigs, leptospirosis infection appears as jaundice. Similarly, in cattle, the bacteria can be transmitted through milk. Dogs develop a high fever, show signs of dehydration, breathe faster, and may have nosebleeds. For dogs, recovery usually takes two to three weeks, but they can remain carriers for several months. In cats, symptoms are mild, but liver and kidney problems can occur. Horses experience muscle pain and, in severe cases, may suffer permanent blindness.

What about humans?

Interestingly, 75% of those infected are men. The disease can go unnoticed but can also be fatal. It is very common among farmers, miners, slaughterhouse workers, and fishermen. It most often occurs in early autumn. Due to its atypical condition and non-specific clinical picture, the infection is extremely difficult to diagnose. Approximately half of those infected do not notice the disease, while a tenth may require treatment for up to 20 days (usually 2 to 13 days). There are no fatal outcomes for those under 60, but for older individuals, the fatality rate is 5 to 10%. Transmission from person to person is rare but possible.

The most well-known outbreak of leptospirosis occurred in 2010 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where 10 people died after swimming in a central city pool.

The disease in our country

In Slovenia, there has been no tragic case due to leptospirosis, but infections occur throughout the year (about 40 severe cases). Three-quarters of the cases occur in Pomurje, but Croatians have detected more infected mice and rats in the vicinity of the Sava and Drava rivers in the past decade. Doctors acknowledge the possibility of infection from cans, but it is very unlikely. They primarily recommend regular vaccination of dogs and emphasize cleanliness, especially on animal farms and in public swimming areas. Cleanliness is a universal remedy after all.

Is it safe to drink from cans?

The likelihood of experiencing the fate of the elderly woman from the introductory email is very low. Especially now that you've read this article. Every time you bring a can to your lips, remember that there could be traces of dried rat urine on it, and it won't be difficult to rinse the can under water. Do this not because of leptospirosis, but for your own peace of mind.