Arabic version: وفاة امرأة من أقصى الشمال بعد إصابتها بداء البريميات

According to ABC News, a Top End woman in her 30s has died after contracting leptospirosis while hunting near a billabong in a remote community. She had underlying health conditions, developed a rapid infection and died at Royal Darwin Hospital a week ago.

The exact location where she contracted the illness, and how long she had been unwell, remain unclear. ABC News understands she was one of four confirmed leptospirosis cases admitted to Royal Darwin Hospital’s intensive care unit in recent months. The other three patients have been discharged.

NT Health has confirmed 11 people have contracted the bacterial illness in 2026, compared with six recorded cases in the Northern Territory last year. Authorities are urging people to take extra care around waterways.

Leptospirosis can spread through water, mud or soil contaminated by infected animal urine, particularly after flooding events. The bacteria can enter through cuts in the skin or through splashes to the eyes, nose or mouth. Symptoms can include sudden fever, severe muscle pain and bloodshot eyes.

Authorities last month identified increased-risk areas around Fogg Dam, Harrison Dam, Gunbalanya, Finniss River, Tipperary Station, rural Darwin, Katherine and Arnhem Land. People hunting, mustering, bushwalking or interacting with animals are advised to avoid potentially contaminated water, cover open wounds and wear protective clothing. NT Health says early diagnosis and treatment are critical and urges anyone with symptoms to seek urgent medical attention.