Around 1,800 cases of Leptospirosis have been reported in Sri Lanka so far this year, according to the Epidemiology Unit of the Ministry of Health.
Speaking at a media briefing at the Health Promotion Bureau, Consultant Community Physician Thushani Dabrera said higher numbers of cases have been reported from districts such as Galle, Matara, Kalutara, Ratnapura, Monaragala and Kegalle.
She noted that leptospirosis is the second most commonly reported infectious disease in Sri Lanka, with around 13,000 cases reported annually to the Epidemiology Unit, although the actual number may be higher. In recent years, between 100 and 200 deaths have been recorded each year, with about 300 deaths reported in 2024 and fewer than 200 in 2025.
Dr. Dabrera added that cases are also reported from Kurunegala, Gampaha and Colombo, particularly in areas where paddy cultivation and other high-risk activities take place.
Consultant Physician Kolitha Jayasundara explained that symptoms of leptospirosis typically include fever lasting three to five days, abdominal pain, vomiting, severe headaches, joint pain and muscle pain. He stressed that if the fever continues beyond three days, patients should seek medical attention immediately, as delayed treatment can lead to serious complications affecting the kidneys, lungs and even the brain, which can be fatal in severe cases.
