CHICAGO (WGN) - Chicago health officials are sounding the alarm over multiple recent cases of leptospirosis, a disease blamed for roughly 60,000 annual deaths globally.

The Chicago Department of Public Health said a total of six cases of leptospirosis have been reported to the department so far this year, which is more than expected. Officials said median case numbers historically have been two per year.

Brought on by the Leptospira bacterium, which can survive in water or soil for months, leptospirosis can be serious if left untreated. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people with leptospirosis can experience damage to their kidneys, meningitis, liver failure, breathing problems, and, in some case, death. About 10% of cases become severe and life-threatening,

See Full Page