In this section you will find a vast range of information that will help you if you have never been to France… or want to expand your knowledge of the country.
We have provided info. about the range of fishing you can expect to find, the tackle and approach to fishing certain types of waters, driving through the country and eating out. If you have a question that is not in this section then please email us and we will try to find the answer. Click on the links above to access the topics.
What you should know… about Weils disease.
Click here to read an article by Jamie Simpson from Carpworld, April 2007. Jamie actually contracted Weils Disease… so he knows what he’s talking about.
Weils disease (Otherwise known as ‘Leptospirosis’) is something all anglers should be aware of whether fishing at your local lake, river or abroad.
What is Weils disease?
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects humans and animals. People at risk are those who take part in sport/activities on lakes, rivers e.g. canoeists, anglers, water-skiers etc.
Symptoms :
Include high fever, severe headache, chills, muscle aches, and vomiting, and may include jaundice (yellow skin and eyes), red eyes, abdominal pain, diaorrhea, or a rash. If the disease is not treated, the patient could develop kidney damage, meningitis, liver failure, and respiratory distress. In rare cases death occurs. Many of these symptoms can be mistaken for other illnesses such as flu.
How do people get leptospirosis?
It is usually caused by exposure to water contaminated with the urine of infected animals. (Many different kinds of animals carry the bacterium; including cattle, pigs, horses, dogs, rodents, and wild animals).
This may happen by swallowing contaminated food or water or through skin contact, especially with mucosal surfaces, such as the eyes or nose, or with broken skin. (Let’s face it many anglers handle fish with cuts etc on their hands).
How long is it between the time of exposure and when people become sick?
The time between a person's exposure to a contaminated source and becoming sick is 2 days to 4 weeks.
What you can do to avoid it...
Always wear waterproof plasters if you have broken skin. Use antibacterial wipes after handling fish or wash your hands in soap & clean water. If you have cuts etc on your legs or feet remember to clean these too.
If you have these symptoms…
after coming into contact with potentially contaminated water. You should seek medical attention explaining that you may have had contact with the Leptospirosis bacteria. If the doctor does not offer, demand a blood test since this may save your life.
Over the last decade an average of 54 cases of leptospirosis per year have been diagnosed in England and Wales. Don’t panic unduly… but be aware of what to do and what the dangers are.
