More leptospirosis linked to UH flood
By Robbie Dingeman
Advertiser Health Writer
The state Health Department is investigating a probable second case of leptospirosis linked to the Oct. 30 flood at the University of Hawai'i-Manoa.
Unlike Professor Terrence Lyttle, who contracted a serious case of the illness, this involves a graduate student who developed a mild illness and did not require hospitalization, officials said.
University spokesman Jim Manke said both Lyttle and the graduate student helped in the cleanup at the UH Biomedical Sciences complex.
The student's case is classified as probable because the confirmatory tests are still pending, said Dr. Kate Gaynor, of the state Health Department's disease investigation branch.
Both Lyttle and the graduate student have recovered fully. Gaynor said the student had recovered from a mild illness by the time he was tested.
Lyttle's case was confirmed, Gaynor said. She said the student was helping Lyttle with the cleanup and sought testing after realizing that he was exposed at the same time.
Despite this likely second case, state epidemiologist Dr. Paul Effler said he doesn't expect any other new cases stemming from the Manoa flood because the incubation period for the disease — which ranges from three to 30 days — has passed. The last contact with the UH floodwaters and mud was on or before Nov. 6.
The disease, which can be fatal, is linked to bacteria commonly found in streams throughout the state and often in water or mud exposed to animal urine.
Only about 5 percent of people exposed to leptospirosis develop a serious infection, Gaynor said.
Hundreds of people have helped with the campus clean-up — and potentially been exposed to the bacteria. Health officials advise people who develop flu-like symptoms (high fever, headaches, muscle aches, nausea and vomiting) after exposure to water, mud or animals to report their symptoms to their doctor.
The state Health Department is asking people who helped with the campus clean-up to complete a brief questionnaire that is available at www.hawaii.edu/floodinfo/.
Reach Robbie Dingeman at rdingeman@honoluluadvertiser.com or 535-2429.
