PETALING JAYA: The more serious cases of leptospirosis tend to occur in waterfalls or river picnic areas, says Datuk Dr Christopher Lee, the Health Ministry national adviser on infectious diseases.
“We, Malaysians, don’t clean up after ourselves well. We leave food containers behind which can attract rats that then contaminate the water,” he said.
“Unless environmental hygiene improves, these sites will remain a risk.
“Water parks and swimming pools are not a risk as they are usually clean and well maintained. Outdoor spots are a risk, and when people go for a dip they are exposed.”
He urged people to choose their outdoor recreation spots wisely.
“Make sure they are clean. If you see overflowing rubbish bins or leftover food containers, then you know it is not a good area.”
Lee said another health issue was the prevalence of dengue in the country right now.
“The initial symptoms can be similar, so leptospirosis can be more difficult to diagnose.”
Symptoms of leptospirosis include chills, headaches, muscle pains, nausea, vomiting, coughs and rashes.
Warning for outdoor holiday seekers
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