Colombia registers over 4,200 cases of leptospirosis in 2026

Colombian health authorities have reported that leptospirosis cases have exceeded 4,200 infections in the country during the year 2026. This bacterial infection, transmitted primarily through contact with water or soil contaminated by the urine of infected animals, has generated a preventive alert due to its potential severity.

Leptospirosis is caused by the Leptospira bacteria, which uses rodents, livestock, pigs, and horses as reservoirs. Contagion in humans occurs when the bacteria enters the body through skin wounds or through the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth, frequently after contact with stagnant water or mud following heavy rains.

Initial symptoms can be confused with common illnesses, including fever, muscle aches, nausea, and headaches. However, experts from the Manuela Beltrán University warn that, without treatment, the infection can progress to severe conditions that compromise vital organs, causing kidney failure, liver damage, meningitis, or respiratory difficulties.

To prevent contagion, it is recommended to avoid contact with potentially contaminated water, use protective clothing and footwear in humid areas, and maintain strict hygiene measures at home and in food handling. Rodent control and surface cleaning are essential to reduce the risk of exposure to the bacteria.