Can I Claim For Weil’s Disease

Weil’s Disease is a zoonotic disease with reports suggesting that it is re-emerging, prompting the question – Can I Claim For Weil’s Disease.

Also known as Leptospirosis, a surge in Weil’s Disease may be due to rat infestations in urban industrialised areas. This is thought to be a result of increasing urbanisation and climate change resulting in flooding and higher temperatures.

Studies indicate an increase between 2020 to 2023, while it is also thought there are cases which go unreported as it presents with a wide range of symptoms.

If you have been diagnosed with Weil’s Disease through no fault of your own, Jefferies Claims may be able to assist.

Understanding Weil’s Disease

Weil’s Disease is a bacterial infection caused by the Leptospira bacteria. This disease is often associated with rat infestations in workplaces, especially in environments such as warehouses, factories, farms, and construction sites. The bacteria thrive in water contaminated by the urine of infected animals, including rats, and can pose serious health risks to employees.

While Weil’s Disease can be carried by a wide number of wild and domestic animals, the most commonly known are rats or cattle. In an industrial sector, workers can particularly be at risk if there is refurbishment or demolition where there is a rat infestation.

How Weil’s Disease Spreads in the Workplace

Rats are notorious carriers of Leptospira bacteria. The primary ways workplace contamination occurs include:

• Contact with Rat Urine: Leptospira bacteria are present in the urine of infected rats. Workers may come into contact with contaminated surfaces, tools, or machinery.
• Infected Water Sources: The bacteria thrive in stagnant water, which may accumulate in poorly maintained workplace areas.
• Broken Skin and Mucous Membranes: Workers can become infected through cuts, scratches, or contact with contaminated water via the eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Inhalation of Aerosolized Bacteria: Dust or water droplets contaminated with the bacteria may pose a risk when inhaled.

Symptoms of Weil’s Disease

Weil’s Disease symptoms vary in severity and typically appear within 2 to 14 days after exposure. So early detection is crucial for effective treatment. Common symptoms include:

• High fever
• Chills and muscle aches
• Headaches
• Vomiting and diarrhoea
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Red eyes and skin rashes
• Kidney damage and liver failure in severe cases

If left untreated, Weil’s Disease can lead to life-threatening complications, including meningitis, respiratory distress, and multiple organ failure.

Workplace Risk Factors for Weil’s Disease

Certain workplace conditions increase the likelihood of rat infestations. However, you will have to prove negligence by an employer if you want to claim for Weil’s Disease.  Conditions behind the spread of leptospirosis, include:

• Poor sanitation and waste management
• Standing water or damp environments
• Food storage in open areas
• Structural damages allowing rats easy entry
• Infrequent pest control measures

Pursuing A Personal Injury Claim

If you have contracted Weil’s Disease due to workplace conditions, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury claim. It is important that you can demonstrate that your infection was due to negligence.

In fact, if you have suffered from Weil’s Disease or any other disease in the workplace due to employer negligence, Jefferies Claims can advise you on a potential Personal Injury Claim. We work with highly experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and your information remains confidential.

Contact Jefferies Claims today at 0333 358 3034 or complete our online contact form to arrange an initial no-obligation telephone consultation.