"Surviving Leptospirosis" by Kalaheo High School | HIKI NŌ 411 | PBS HAWAIʻI

Summary

Skye Parker's life was dramatically impacted at sixteen months old when she contracted leptospirosis after ingesting sewage-contaminated water. The disease, caused by contaminated animal urine, led to a coma and a desperate race through multiple hospitals for treatment. The family's ordeal emphasizes the importance of community support and medical intervention. Leptospirosis, prevalent in Hawaii, can be prevented by avoiding stagnant water, with no vaccine currently available.

Takeaways

• 👶 A child's curiosity can lead to dangerous situations, as illustrated by Skye Parker's story.
• 🚑 Ingesting contaminated water can result in severe health consequences, such as Skye contracting leptospirosis.
• 🏥 The healthcare journey for Skye was complex, involving multiple hospitals and a race against time to find appropriate treatment.
• 🏠 Family support is crucial during medical crises, as it was for Skye's family during her coma.
• 😷 Leptospirosis is a rare but serious bacterial disease that can have life-threatening complications.
• 🐾 The disease is contracted through contact with water contaminated by animal urine, highlighting the risks of certain environments.
• 🌡 Symptoms of leptospirosis can take a few days to appear and include a range of flu-like signs.
• 🙏 Maintaining a positive attitude and trusting in medical professionals is key during health emergencies.
• 🏞️ Hawaii has a high incidence of leptospirosis, emphasizing the importance of preventative measures in such regions.
• ⚠️ There is no vaccine for leptospirosis, making avoidance of contaminated water the primary prevention strategy.

Q & A

What happened to Skye Parker as a child that led to a serious health condition?

Skye Parker contracted leptospirosis after picking up a pacifier that had sewage water on it, which she then put in her mouth.

What is leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is a rare bacterial disease that can be contracted when someone ingests water contaminated with animal urine.

What are the symptoms of leptospirosis?

Symptoms of leptospirosis include dry cough, fever, headache, muscle pain, and shakes and chills, which can take two to six days to develop.

How did Skye's parents react when they found out about her condition?

Skye's parents rushed her to Castle Medical Center, and after being transferred to other hospitals, they were told she was going to die, but they remained hopeful and supportive throughout her treatment.

What was the duration of Skye's coma?

Skye was in a coma for sixteen days before her condition was diagnosed.

How did the community support Skye's family during this crisis?

Extended family and good friends were with Skye's family at the hospital day-in and day-out, providing emotional support and staying with them through the difficult times.

What advice does Skye's family give for dealing with a tragedy like this?

Skye's family advises surrounding oneself with family, being positive, staying close, keeping praying, trusting in the doctors, and trusting in the Lord while being patient.

Is there a vaccination available for leptospirosis?

There is currently no vaccination available for leptospirosis.

What is the best way to protect oneself against leptospirosis?

The best way to protect oneself against leptospirosis is to avoid contact with stagnant water, especially in tropical areas such as Hawaii.

Why is Hawaii mentioned as a high-risk area for leptospirosis?

Hawaii has the highest number of leptospirosis cases in the United States, likely due to its tropical climate and the presence of stagnant water.

What is the usual outcome of leptospirosis if treated?

Leptospirosis is generally not life-threatening, but it can be in some cases. With proper treatment, most individuals can recover.