Health officials advise caution after suspected leptospirosis outbreak in Kuala Pilah

Malaysia's health officials are investigating four suspected leptospirosis cases linked to a recreation park.

Health authorities in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia have advised the public to watch for symptoms of leptospirosis after four suspected cases were linked to water activities at a recreation park in Kuala Pilah.

The Negeri Sembilan State Health Department (JKNNS) said all four individuals had fever, headache and muscle aches after visiting and taking part in water activities at the site. One person was admitted to hospital for further treatment, while three others received outpatient care.

Clinical samples have been taken to confirm whether the cases are leptospirosis.

Leptospirosis, sometimes known as “rat disease”, is a bacterial infection that can spread from animals to humans through contaminated water, soil or food. Infection can occur when contaminated material enters the body through cuts, wounds or mucous membranes, or when it is ingested.

Symptoms can appear between two and 30 days after exposure. They include fever, chills, body or muscle aches, headache, dry cough, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. advised anyone who develops symptoms after visiting a recreational area to seek treatment at a nearby health facility.

JKNNS has advised the public to follow the below advisory: 

• Avoid visiting water recreation areas, especially during the rainy season due to the risk of leptospirosis infection;
• Always keep the environment clean and do not throw garbage everywhere;
• Practice personal hygiene including washing hands with clean water and soap;
• Avoid drinking or using river water and unboiled water;
• Avoid swimming or playing in water if you have a wound, and ensure the wound is covered with a waterproof bandage; and
• Avoid playing in water or walking through puddles and stagnant water, especially after floods.

As a control and prevention measure, the recreation area was closed by the relevant agencies from 10 May 2026 to 17 May 2026 to allow cleaning and maintenance work to be carried out.

The JKNNS will continue to monitor the current developments of the leptospirosis incident and increase preparedness in implementing prevention and control measures in collaboration with all relevant agencies.

The public is also advised to always maintain hygiene when visiting recreation centers and immediately seek treatment at a nearby health facility if they experience symptoms after visiting such areas.

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