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Rural infections series

Note: Article series are online compilations of previously published articles, links will open in a new window to the original article.

Rural infections series: Leptospirosis

This article is the first in a series addressing the diagnosis and management of infections that predominantly occur in people who work or live in a rural environment. Most of these infections are caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites which infect animals but can also pass to humans (known as zoonoses). The first article in this series focuses on the diagnosis, laboratory investigation and management of patients with suspected leptospirosis.

Best Tests, November 2013

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Rural infections series: Investigating and managing people with diarrhoea

Campylobacter, Salmonella, Cryptosporidium and Giardia cause diarrhoeal illnesses in thousands of people annually in New Zealand. The incidence of these infections is significantly higher in New Zealand compared to most other developed nations. Animal, environmental and waterborne sources are a common cause of isolated illnesses and outbreaks, and exposure to these sources is a significant risk-factor for infection. This edition of the rural infections series focuses on these four notifiable pathogens, each of which causes a similar set of symptoms, and discusses the investigation and management of diarrhoeal illnesses in a person with rural occupation, residence or recent contact with animals or untreated water.

Best Tests, February 2014

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Rural infections series: Investigating and managing people with diarrhoea

In the final instalment of the rural series we present a round-up of infections that may be seen in patients living in, working in or visiting a rural environment. Most of these infections will be rarely encountered, but it is useful to be aware of their features and recommended management.

Best Tests, May 2014

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