The Yogyakarta Health Department reported 22 cases of leptospirosis this year, 4 of which were fatal. Indonesia has a relatively high risk of leptospirosis due to recurrent flooding and the presence of standing water and poor sewerage and sanitation in some residential areas.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that occurs worldwide and is particularly common in tropical countries during the rainy or flood season. It is caused by a bacterium and transmitted through skin contact (minor injuries) with water contaminated by urine (mainly from infected rats, dogs, pigs, cows, etc.). The risk increases when camping or engaging in water-related activities (swimming, kayaking, wading through streams). The disease can be treated with antibiotics if diagnosed in time.