Mild leptospirosis can be difficult to diagnose when it is in its acute (early) stage because it shares symptoms with many other more common infections, such as influenza (flu).
Also, many of the tests that are usually used for investigating flu-like symptoms are not very effective at diagnosing leptospirosis.
Therefore, a diagnosis of leptospirosis is usually only considered if you are experiencing the symptoms of severe leptospirosis.
To diagnose leptospirosis successfully, a detailed personal history is usually required. You should tell your GP if you:
- have recently travelled to parts of the world where leptospirosis is widespread
- have recently been exposed to a freshwater source, such as a river, lake, drain, canal or pond
- have an occupation that involves exposure to animal urine or animal blood, such as farming, caring for animals (veterinary care) or working in an abattoir
A diagnosis of leptospirosis can be confirmed by running a series of blood and urine tests to detect the presence of the leptospira bacteria in your blood or urine.
