Ulu Bendul park closed after four suspected leptospirosis cases detected in Negeri Sembilan

SEREMBAN, May 13 — The Negeri Sembilan Health Department (JKNNS) has detected four suspected cases of leptospirosis, or rat urine disease, at the Taman Eko Rimba Ulu Bendul recreational park in Kuala Pilah.

JKNNS said one patient was admitted to hospital while three others received outpatient treatment after showing symptoms including fever, headache and muscle pain.

“All cases had a history of visiting and carrying out water activities at the recreational area, while clinical samples have been taken for confirmatory tests,” the department said in a statement today.

It said a risk assessment found the environment at the recreational park conducive to the spread of leptospirosis, a zoonotic disease caused by Leptospira bacteria that can spread through contaminated water, soil or food.

Following the cases, the recreational area was temporarily closed to allow cleaning, sanitation and water quality monitoring works to be carried out as part of prevention and control measures.

JKNNS also advised the public to avoid water recreational areas during the rainy season, maintain cleanliness, avoid swimming with open wounds and practise good personal hygiene to reduce the risk of infection. — Bernama