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Leptospirosis in French Polynesia

20 January 2015

The health authorities have reported 6 cases of leptospirosis in French Polynesia since the beginning of January (2015). Two teenagers are currently receiving hospital treatment in Taaone (Tahiti). Last year (2014), leptospirosis affected 129 people, with two related deaths.

Advice for Travellers

Leptospirosis is caused by contact with fresh water, wet soil, or vegetation that has been contaminated by urine of animals that are chronically infected. The infection is transmitted through unhealed breaks in the skin, the eyes, or the mucous membranes. Rats, dogs, cattle, and pigs are the usual reservoirs for this organism. Leptospirosis occurs worldwide and frequently follows flooding after heavy rains.