Leptospirosis kills one and sickens another in rat-infested Berkeley RV
Two people living in a rat-infested RV near a Berkeley homeless encampment contracted leptospirosis, and one of them died after an extended hospitalization.
Health officials identified leptospirosis, a flu-like illness spread through contact with infected rat urine, in two occupants of a filthy RV near Berkeley's homeless camp at Eighth and Harrison streets. One of the patients succumbed after a prolonged hospitalization, while the other survived. The outbreak prompted the city to warn residents, recommend leptospirosis vaccination for dogs, and label the camp a fire hazard and public nuisance.
After months of legal battles, a court order finally allowed Berkeley to start dismantling the tents, with a requirement to assist disabled residents in relocating. The disease is rare in the region, typically seen in tropical areas, and experts explained how the bacteria can enter cuts or eyes from contaminated water. The incident underscores ongoing public-health and safety challenges tied to the city's rat-infested encampments.
Why it matters
It shows how unsanitary encampments can trigger rare, deadly diseases and strain local health resources.
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