Leptospirosis cases in Yogyakarta have been reported to rise significantly despite the end of the rainy season. Although not yet declared an outbreak, the situation requires handling equivalent to one. This was conveyed by Universitas Gadjah Mada epidemiologist, Dr. Bayu Satria Wiratama, in the TropmedTalk podcast shared with journalists on Monday (Aug. 19).
Dr. Wiratama emphasized that declaring an outbreak is not merely a matter of announcement but ensuring that the Health Office takes the necessary measures. He added that a surge in cases usually occurs during the rainy season or after floods due to contact with water contaminated by the Leptospira bacteria.
“However, something has changed, as this year the spike in cases appeared during the dry season,” he said.
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease transmitted through contact with water or soil contaminated with rat urine. The bacteria can enter the body through cuts in the skin, even small, unnoticed wounds. According to Dr. Wiratama, its symptoms often resemble dengue fever or chikungunya, which can lead to delayed diagnosis.
“If a fever does not subside within one to two days, especially with a history of activity in a high-risk environment, seek medical care immediately,” he urged.
Dr. Wiratama suspected that the rise in cases is linked to suboptimal waste management in Yogyakarta. He explained that accumulated waste provides food sources and breeding grounds for rats, the primary carriers of Leptospira.
“Cases can increase even without rain or flooding, as environmental factors play a major role,” he explained.
Furthermore, Dr. Wiratama stressed that controlling leptospirosis requires more than efforts from the health sector alone. It also calls for cross-sectoral cooperation involving the Environmental Agency, Market Agency, and Public Works and Housing Agency, as well as active community participation.
He encouraged residents to maintain environmental cleanliness, properly manage household waste, cover food and drinking water to avoid contamination, and wear footwear when engaging in outdoor activities, particularly in damp areas.
“With the understanding that the season is no longer the only risk factor, it is essential for the community to strengthen preventive measures consistently throughout the year,” Dr. Wiratama concluded.
Author: Lintang Andwyna
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Illustration: UGM Center for Tropical Medicine and Freepik