The Southern Health Board has warned people to be aware of leptospirosis, better known as Weil's disease.
According to the board, the disease is usually contracted from rats although it can be spread by a variety of wild and domestic animals.
"Water contaminated by infected rat urine can be found in sewers, ditches, ponds, canals and slow flowing rivers," the board said. The department of public health had produced leptospirosis information leaflets which are being widely distributed in Cork and Kerry.
"The leaflets are being targeted at those at risk," the board said.
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It added that precautions should be taken. These included the covering of cuts and abrasions before fresh water activities and thorough cleansing after handling animals.