Researchers Develop Quick, Inexpensive Leptospirosis Test

The researchers at Chulalongkorn University have developed an innovative lateral flow strip test for leptospirosis screening that is quick, inexpensive and easy to use. This will aid in diagnosis and proper treatment and lower the risk of disability from internal organ failure and death.

Leptospirosis is a danger that comes with the rainy season. Initial symptoms are not specific. It can be similar to other infectious diseases, such as dengue fever and influenza, causing infected people to be misdiagnosed. Normally, diagnosis is done with expensive equipment and generally takes one or two weeks to know the result. As a consequence, leptospirosis is not treated properly or timely and may cause severe symptoms, and risk of internal organ failure and death.