Genus of Spirochaete bacteria that cause a mild chronic infection in rats and many domestic animals.
The bacteria are excreted continuously in the urine and contact with infected urine or water can result in infection of humans via cuts or breaks in the skin. Infection causes leptospirosis or Weil's disease, a type of jaundice, that is an occupational hazard for sewerage and farm workers.
(18 Nov 1997)