Leptospirosis is a zoonotic bacterial disease caused by Leptospira bacteria. It primarily affects animals like rodents and livestock, but humans can become infected through contact with contaminated water or soil. It is most common in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
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Leptospirosis was first clinically described in 1886 by Adolf Weil. The causative bacterium, *Leptospira*, was identified in 1907. Historically, it significantly impacted agricultural workers and soldiers due to exposure in contaminated environments.
Leptospirosis spreads through contact with urine from infected animals (e.g., rodents, cattle, dogs). Humans become infected when contaminated water, soil, or food touches skin abrasions, mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth), or by ingesting contaminated water. Person-to-person spread is rare.
Contagious Period: Varies by disease
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Leptospirosis is endemic in Sri Lanka, with seasonal peaks during the monsoon periods. Most cases occur in the wet‑zone agricultural districts, particularly among paddy farmers and others with frequent exposure to flooded fields, marshy land, and contaminated surface water. In recent years, around 9000 to 13000 cases were reported each year.
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A deadly rat-borne disease outbreak in Berkeley has claimed its first human victim in more than a decade -- and health officials say the shocking case involved an RV so overrun with rodents that nearly 200 rats had to be removed before the vehicle was destroyed.
Berkeley officials confirmed this week that one person died in May after contracting leptospirosis, a potentially fatal bacterial disease spread through the urine of infected animals, particularly rats. A second person who lived with the
This event envelope contains reports on leptospirosis clusters and outbreaks in Peru.
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This event envelope includes reports on leptospirosis clusters and outbreaks in American Samoa.
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This event folder reports on leptospirosis cases in Greece.
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This event envelope contains reports on leptospirosis in Réunion.
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This event envelope contains reports on leptospirosis in Malaysia.
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This event folder lists leptospirosis cases and outbreaks in USA.
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This event envelope contains reports on leptospirosis in French Polynesia.
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This event envelope contains reports on leptospirosis in Dominican Republic.
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View WHO Resources →Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-19
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