Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by the bacteria Leptospira. It is spread by domestic and wild animals, particularly rats. Humans can become infected through skin contact with water, wet soil or vegetation that is contaminated with the urine of animals carrying the bacteria.

In the Northern Territory (NT), the Fogg Dam / Harrison Dam area outside of Darwin is home to a large population of the native ‘dusky rat’ (Rattus colletti), and people are known to have become infected in this area. Generally, however, areas around water and dense animal populations, especially after flooding, are considered at-risk areas.

Notifiable disease

Leptospirosis is a notifiable disease.

Alert to health professionals

• Health alert: leptospirosis in the Top End - 1 October 2026 PDF (657.2 KB)

Current situation

On average there are 10 cases per year in the NT and there have been 7 cases so far in 2026, with 2 recent cases requiring admission to an intensive care unit (ICU). With hunting and mustering underway, further cases of leptospirosis may be identified. Targeted advice has been provided to at-risk groups, including hunters.

Information for health professionals

Information for the public