The Ministry of Health has initiated efforts to collect blood samples from mammals in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province as part of an investigation into the recent leptospirosis outbreak.
According to the Epidemiology Unit, the collected samples have been sent to the Department of Veterinary Services’ laboratory for analysis.
In the Jaffna District alone, eight fatalities have been reported in recent days due to leptospirosis. Health authorities warn that the ongoing rainy weather could lead to a rise in reported cases in the Northern Province.
Over the past year, Sri Lanka has recorded approximately 12,000 leptospirosis cases, with nearly 200 deaths attributed to the disease.
Leptospirosis is primarily transmitted through exposure to the urine of infected animals, such as mice, or through the entry of the virus via open wounds. Symptoms include red eyes, fever, reduced urine output, severe headache, and muscle pain.
The Ministry of Health urges the public to remain vigilant and seek immediate medical attention if any symptoms are observed.
