IRISH health experts have warned of a bacterial infection following heavy rainfall.

They've shared information about the illness, which can be spread through cuts and scratches.

Leptospirosis is frequently found in wild animals.

It can spread to humans through contact with rat or dog urine, along with foetal fluids from cattle.

The infected urine or contaminated water can be found in sewers, ditches, ponds, canals and slow-flowing rivers and riverbanks.

Experts at Travel Health Clinics warn that due to the severe rainfall Ireland has seen recently, the risk of infection is high.

This is because the rainwater washes the infected urine into rivers and lakes where people go swimming.

Founder of the Tropical Medical Bureau Dr Graham Fry said: "Leptospirosis can be spread to humans through freshwater exposure, rivers and lakes, in Ireland.

"This is frequently associated with heavy rains after a prolonged dry spell where the water washes infected urine into the rivers and lakes where humans then go swimming."

If a person comes into contact with the infected urine, the bacteria, which is called Leptospirosis can get into the body through cuts and scratches and through the lining of the mouth, throat and eyes.

And experts have warned which symptoms to look out for with the illness.

Common signs include flu-like symptoms, persistent and severe headaches, muscle pains and chills.

And in some cases, infected individuals may also develop meningitis.

In rare cases, the disease can develop into the severe form which is also known as Weil's Disease.

This can cause liver and kidney failure and can be fatal in a small number of cases.

Experts are urging Irish people to be on high alert following the heatwave and subsequent heavy rainfall.

They said: "Persons that experience a flu-like illness within a three-week period after engaging in a water-based activity should contact your GP and explain concerns and possible freshwater exposure.

"Any high fever and more serious symptoms within a two or three-week period may necessitate a very urgent trip to casualty as this can be an absolute life-threatening condition."

To reduce the risk of contracting this disease, Dr Fry says people should avoid swimming in water which has obviously been polluted.

Any cuts or scratches that happen during swimming, fishing or any other water activities should be cleaned.

First aid should be applied to them as soon as possible.

Leptospirosis is especially common in tropical regions around the world.

But Ireland does report approximately 20 outbreaks of Leptospirosis cases on average per year.

Dr Fry said: "If individuals are going swimming or taking part in water activities in the coming few days, ensure any cuts or abrasions are covered with a waterproof dressing while swimming or canoeing and to shower thoroughly following water activities."

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