Last Updated on February 7, 2025 by tanya

Can I Claim for Weil’s Disease?

 

Understanding whether to pursue a claim for Weil’s Disease has become more important as this disease has become increasingly prevalent. This is particularly due to rising rat infestations in urban and industrial areas.

This increase is believed to be linked to factors such as urbanisation. Factors such as flooding, and higher temperatures with climate change may also play a role. Many cases may go unreported due to the wide range of symptoms it can cause. But research suggests a noticeable increase in cases from 2020 to 2023

 

If you believe you may have a claim for compensation, then First Personal Injury may be able to assist.

 

What is Weil’s Disease?

 

Also known as Leptospirosis, Weil’s Disease is typically found in the urine of infected animals, most commonly rats. It is an infection caused by bacteria.

Workers in such workplaces as construction sites, warehouses, factories and farms and, where rat infestations are common, are more vulnerable. The bacteria may be spread through water contaminated with rat urine. This can put you at risk if you and your colleagues are working in these areas.

If you work in the construction industry where demolition or refurbishment projects are taking place, you may face at a higher risk of encountering a rat infestation. Although while rats are known as carriers, other animals such as cattle, may also carry Weil’s Disease

 

Symptoms of Weil’s Disease (Leptospirosis)

Weil’s disease is a severe form of leptospirosis, a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira species. It is transmitted to humans through water or soil contaminated with urine from infected animals, particularly rodents. Weil’s disease represents the more serious, life-threatening phase of leptospirosis and requires urgent medical attention.

 

Early Symptoms

 

Weil’s disease typically progresses in two phases. The initial symptoms resemble a mild flu-like illness, making early diagnosis challenging. These symptoms include:

 

• High Fever: Patients often experience a sudden onset of fever, usually exceeding 39°C (102°F), which may persist for several days.
• Chills and Sweating: As with many bacterial infections, chills and profuse sweating are common.
• Severe Headache: A persistent headache, often located in the temples or forehead, is a frequent complaint.
• Muscle Pain (Myalgia): One of the hallmark symptoms, especially affecting the calves and lower back. This pain can be so severe that it limits movement.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite are common.
• Red Eyes (Conjunctival Suffusion): Unlike conjunctivitis, this symptom involves redness without significant pus or discharge.
• Fatigue and Weakness: Patients feel extremely weak, which can be debilitating.

 

These initial symptoms usually last about 5–7 days, after which some patients recover, while others develop Weil’s disease, the severe form.

 

Severe Symptoms of Weil’s Disease

 

If the infection progresses to Weil’s disease, it can lead to multi-organ failure. This may affect the liver, kidneys, heart, and lungs. The most serious symptoms include:

 

1. Jaundice (Yellowing of the Skin and Eyes)
   • The skin, sclera (whites of the eyes), and mucous membranes take on a yellowish hue.
   • Patients may also have dark urine and pale stools due to liver dysfunction.
2. Kidney Failure (Acute Renal Injury)
   • Weil’s disease can severely impair kidney function, leading to reduced urine output or complete kidney failure.
   • Swelling in the legs and face may occur due to fluid retention.
3. Bleeding and Hemorrhagic Complications
   • Weil’s disease can cause internal and external bleeding due to clotting disorders.
4. Respiratory Issues
   • Weil’s disease can cause pulmonary haemorrhage, leading to coughing up blood.
   • Shortness of breath and severe lung damage can develop in critical cases.
5. Cardiac Symptoms
   • The infection can inflame the heart muscles leading to an irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure and even heart failure in extreme cases.
6. Neurological Symptoms
   • If the bacteria invade the central nervous system, it can cause meningitis or encephalitis.

 

Understanding How Weil’s Disease Spreads in the Workplace

It spreads primarily through contaminated water, soil, or direct contact with infected animals, posing a serious health risk in certain workplaces. Employers and workers in high-risk industries should be aware of how Weil’s disease spreads in the workplace to prevent outbreaks and ensure safety.

 

Can I Claim for Weil’s Disease

To pursue a compensation claim for Weil’s Disease, you need to prove that your employer’s negligence was the cause of the infection.

First Personal Injury offers expert advice and support if you have contracted Weil’s Disease or another workplace-related illness. We work with lawyers who operate on a No Win, No Fee basis.

Contact us today at 0333 358 2345 or complete our online contact form to arrange an initial, no-obligation consultation. We’re here to help you explore your options for pursuing a claim.