22 Feb 2024 | 07:46 AM UTC
Reunion: Elevated leptospirosis activity reported nationwide, especially in the South, in February
Elevated leptospirosis activity reported nationwide in Reunion, especially in the South, in February. Avoid contaminated soil and water.
Health authorities have reported elevated leptospirosis activity nationwide in Reunion, with 40 total cases reported Jan. 1-Feb. 13. This is compared to the 13 cases reported during a similar period in 2023. Majority of the cases has been reported in the South (29 cases), followed by West (5 cases), East (4 cases), and North (2 cases). Health officials urge the public to take the necessary disease prevention measures, including wearing suitable protective equipment and clothing when engaging in agricultural work, gardening, fresh water leisure activities, or when wading through areas where stagnant water and muddy grounds are present. This report represents the most complete data available as of Feb. 22.
Avoid contact with contaminated soil and water. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within one month of being in affected areas.
Leptospirosis is endemic in Reunion, with the risk of infection highest from December to May during the rainy season. Health officials reported roughly 171 leptospirosis cases nationwide in Reunion in 2023, 165 cases in 2022, 139 cases in 2021, and 129 cases in 2020.
Leptospirosis is caused by a bacteria that spreads to humans through water and soil contaminated by infected animal urine. Symptoms typically appear 2-14 days after exposure, but can develop up to 30 days after exposure. Symptoms generally include headache, fever, muscle aches, chills, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. However, some individuals can develop more severe symptoms including meningitis, kidney failure, or liver failure.
