Resident of Iittala diagnosed with leptospirosis after family’s dog infection

Heikki Majava, a resident of Iittala, has suspected for over two weeks that he may have contracted leptospirosis from his family’s dog. Today, he received a phone call from his doctor at the local health center confirming that a culture taken nearly two weeks ago suggests the presence of a leptospira bacterium. Majava has been experiencing flu-like symptoms, particularly noting a sensation akin to being ill, especially upon waking up in the mornings. Although he has no chills, he feels discomfort in his throat and has been sneezing frequently.

His condition has not notably improved over the past weeks. While it hasn’t worsened, he still experiences significant nasal irritation when coming indoors. His doctor has prescribed an antibiotic treatment to address the suspected leptospirosis.

Majava’s case is quite rare in Finland, where the last recorded human cases of leptospirosis occurred in 2016. According to health experts, most infections are likely contracted abroad, particularly through water sports in tropical regions. In Finland, only one to three cases are reported annually among dogs, but there have been eight cases this autumn alone. Tragically, Majava’s dog, Polly, succumbed to the illness caused by the bacterium.

Leptospirosis can manifest in various forms, but it is generally recognized as a severe fever illness. It is primarily transmitted through contact with contaminated water, most commonly from the urine of infected animals. While transmission from animals to humans can occur, it is less common. The situation has not deterred Majava’s family, as they express a desire to have another dog in the future.