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What is Lujo? Lujo (LHF) is a hemorraghic fever caused by an arenavirus. LHF is contracted by humans through contact with virus-contaminated rodent excreta, via inhalation of dust or aerosolized materials or vomitus soiled with rodent feces and urine, or nosocomially via direct contact with infected blood, urine or pharyngeal secretions from an infected person …

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What is Listeriosis? Listeriosis is a serious bacterial disease caused by the Gram-positive, rod shaped bacterium, Listeria monocytogenes. The bacterium is widely distributed in nature and can be found in soil, water and contaminated food. Animals and food products such as vegetables can become contaminated from these sources. Infection with Listeria usually results in gastroenteritis …

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What is Lice? Lice is an infection of the hair and skin of humans with arthropods (insects) called Pediculus capitis (head lice), Pediculus humanus (body), and Phthiris pubis (pubic lice). Head and body lice have slightly different appearances when viewed under a microscope, and display different behaviour patterns, but are genetically identical. Head lice lay nits on the shaft of hair …

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What is Leptospirosis? Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease caused by pathogenic Leptospira species. Leptospira are  spirochetes (helically-wound bacteria) that cause infection in animals, and are carried asymptomatically by rodents, especially rats. When humans are infected, clinical presentation ranges from asymptomatic or mildly febrile illness (90% of cases) to severe leptospirosis or life-threatening (10% of cases). Complicated leptospirosis is also …

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Leprosy in Publications Bulletin April 2018

What is Legionella? Legionella bacteria can cause a serious type of pneumonia (lung infection) called Legionnaires’ disease. The bacteria can also cause a less serious illness called Pontiac fever. Legionnaires’ disease is recognised worldwide as an important cause of both community- and hospital-acquired pneumonia.  Legionella bacteria are common and can be found naturally in environmental water sources, …

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What is Lassa Fever? Lassa fever is a viral haemorrhagic illness that was first discovered in 1969 when two missionary nurses died from the illness in the Nigerian town of Lassa. The Lassa virus is a zoonotic or animal-borne virus and the animal vector is the “multimammate rat” (Mastomys natalensis). The virus is a single-stranded …

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