Diagnosis of Leptospirosis

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The diagnosis is by history of exposure and clinical suspicion. Blood tests rarely confirm the illness in time to affect treatment but they may subsequently confirm it. Treatment with appropriate antibiotics should be initiated as early as possible. Untreated cases can progress to a more severe and potentially fatal stage. The Public Health Laboratory Service or hospital consultant microbiologist can offer advice and testing.

Leptospirosis is a notifiable illness in the UK, which means that the doctor who makes the diagnosis must notify those responsible for public health in their area.