December 23, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Health has announced that it has initiated a process to collect blood samples from mammals in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province as part of ongoing investigations into a recent spike in leptospirosis cases.
The samples, gathered by the Epidemiology Unit, are being analysed to help understand the spread of the disease in the region.
The blood samples have been sent to the laboratory of the Department of Veterinary Services for further examination.
The move follows a concerning increase in leptospirosis-related fatalities, with at least eight reported deaths in the Jaffna District alone in recent days.
Health authorities have raised alarm over the potential for a further surge in leptospirosis cases due to the prevailing rainy weather conditions in the Northern Province, which could exacerbate the spread of the disease.
Over the course of the past year, Sri Lanka has reported approximately 12,000 cases of leptospirosis, and nearly 200 people have died from the disease in 2024 alone.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that is typically transmitted through direct contact with the urine of infected rodents, or through open wounds exposed to contaminated water. Common symptoms of the disease include fever, severe headache, eye redness, muscle pain, and a decrease in urine output.
The Ministry of Health is urging the public to remain vigilant and to seek immediate medical care if any of these symptoms arise.
In addition, officials have stressed the importance of taking preventive measures, particularly in areas prone to flooding or where there may be a higher concentration of rodents.
Public health campaigns are also being intensified in affected regions to raise awareness about the risks of leptospirosis and encourage early intervention.
