Urgent warning after teenagers 'become ill' with 'rare' disease at popular river swimming spot near Northampton
An urgent warning has been shared on social media after several teenagers reportedly became seriously ill after swimming at a popular river spot near Northampton during last week's heatwave.
A parent issued the warning after claims that a possible case of Weil's disease may be linked to people entering the river on Thursday June 26, and Friday June 27.
The post, which has since been shared across several community Facebook groups, urges people not to swim or paddle in the water and to seek medical advice if they develop symptoms.
It reads: "No swimming. No paddling. Possible Weil's Disease case."
The warning says anyone who develops a high temperature, headache, aching muscles, vomiting or red eyes after being in the river should contact their GP, call NHS 111 or attend A&E, making sure to mention they had recently been in river water.
The post prompted a flood of comments from people claiming they or their children became unwell after swimming at the nearby weir.
One teenager said around 50 young people had been in the water over the two days.
They said: “Around 50 teenagers have been in the weir on Thursday and Friday. My mum and I, as well as several other teenagers, have been to hospital to be tested for Weil's disease after being sick non-stop for almost 16 hours. I also have a concussion.
“The doctors have told my mum to post this to help spread awareness about how serious the situation is. Recognising the symptoms early is very important.”
Another parent wrote: "My son and all his friends have been very unwell over the weekend. They all went into the water on Thursday and Friday."
There has been no official confirmation that any cases of leptospirosis are linked to the area of the river in Kislingbury. The Environment Agency has been approached for comment.
The warning comes as the town is expected to see another spell of hot weather next week, with temperatures forecast to reach around 32 degrees.
According to the NHS, Leptospirosis is a rare bacterial infection that can be caught through contact with water contaminated by the urine of infected animals, most commonly rats. Early symptoms include a high temperature, headaches, muscle pain, vomiting and red eyes. While most people recover with treatment, the illness can become serious if left untreated.