Human leptospirosis is a febrile illness with symptoms similar to those of influenza, dengue fever and other viral haemorrhagic diseases. It is a potentially serious but treatable disease caused by pathogenic leptospires that are transmitted directly or indirectly from animals to humans. Rodents, insectivores, dogs, cattle and swine are the primary animal reservoirs. Human-to-human transmission is very rare.

 Leptospirosis is a worldwide public health problem, though it is mainly found in humid tropical and subtropical areas where it is linked to local agricultural practices and poor housing and waste disposal. Because of its resemblance to other diseases and the necessity for laboratory tests to confirm a diagnosis of leptospirosis, the disease is largely underreported and is overlooked in many parts of the world where it is likely to occur.

In regards with these facts WHO in collaboration with ILS will publish general guidelines for human leptospirosis.