Leptospira interrogans

Gram stain:  negative
Cell shape:  spirochete (like a question mark)
Arrangement:  single
Oxygen requirements:
Motility:
Other:

Habitat:  Domestic and wild animals

Pathogenicity:  Causes leptospirosis; in humans, headaches, fever, flu-like symptoms resulting in kidney and liver damage and death

Transmission:  Contact with urine or soil containing urine; enters through minor cuts and abrasions; swimming in infected water

Treatment:

LINKS

Introduction to the Bacteria

Leptospira spp.

Leptospirosis Facts

Leptospirosis infecting dairy workers despite vaccination

New forms of old disease threaten U.S. dogs

NYC Department of Health - Leptospirosis

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