Group to carry kayak up Slieve Donard

Hi Folks

I am writing to seek your involvement with a charity walk we are planning for Sunday 4 th March,2012.

The purpose of this walk is to raise awareness of Weils disease, which is a water-bore disease that has devastating effects on the human body.This is caused by rats urine in the water.

A friend of mine Harry Russell, a keen canoeist and outdoor pursuits instructor contacted the disease on a local river. He was admitted to the intensive care unit of the Ulster hospital, Dundonald.

On admission Harry was seriously ill, but thankfully now he’s making a recovery.

We would like to raise some funds to support the good work done by the I.C.U.unit and also raise awareness of this deadly disease.

Weils Disease is  particular dangerous to those using rivers and water-ways, our idea is to carry a Kayak to the summit of Slieve Donard which is the highest point in Northern Ireland to promote this cause, we would be delighted if any walkers could help spread this message,

I Can be contacted by email for any other info on this great cause and great day out,  john.surginor@gmail.com

Thank you very much J.SURGINOR

WEIL’S DISEASE

WHAT IS IT?

Weil’s Disease also known as Leptospirosis is an acute, infectious disease. It is caused by different types of one bacteria of which there are over 200 known strains. Weil’s Disease is spread in the urine of infected animals (wild and domestic) and in water or soil contaminated with infected urine. The bacteria thrive in wet and moist conditions and can survive for months in stagnant water or wet soil.

CONTRACTING THE DISEASE

The infection enters through broken, grazed or cut skin especially on the hands and feet
and sometimes through the lining of the mouth, nose and eyes. It can also be picked up while wading or swimming in infected water.

SYMPTOMS:

Symptoms may include fever, headaches, chills, severe muscle pain in the calves and thighs, vomiting, diarrhoea and bloodshot eyes. Sometimes the fever may fluctuate and other symptoms such as a rash, jaundice, confusion, depression, kidney failure, liver failure and meningitis may occur. The incubation period is usually 10 days but can range from 4 to 19 days. If Symptoms persist please contact your G.P.[/box]

WHO IS AT RISK?

Effluent Treatment Plant Workers, Sewer Workers, Refuse collection and processing, Underground Cable Laying and Maintenance Workers, Miners, Farmers, Gardeners, Abattoir Workers, Animal Care Workers, People who use water for recreational purposes, Fishermen, Boating and Canoeing enthusiasts, Outdoor pursuits activities,
i.e. Hill walking, camping, Scouting Associations, Rescue Services, Fire Services,
Army and Garda Personnel.

PREVENTION:

Adhere to a rigid hygiene policy. Cover all cuts, scratches and abrasions with a waterproof dressing. Wear protective clothing especially gloves when handling soil, vegetation, animal feeds, tools or equipment that may be contaminated. Avoid touching mouth and nose. Food stuffs should not be consumed in the work area

SOLUTION:

USE FRIENDLY SYSTEMS’ APPROVED PRODUCTS
Spray all suspect work areas with VI RID. On completion of work decontaminate all protective clothing, tools and equipment with a solution of VIRID.
Sanitise hands thoroughly with Healthy Hands before eating and on completion of work.