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According to media quoting local health authorities (in French) there have been 42 cases of leptospirosis (including 1 death) in la Reunion since the start of 2018. The south of the island is particularly affected.
Leptospirosis occurs in most countries and can be transmitted by contact with, or drinking water contaminated with animal urine. An increase in case numbers may occur following flooding.
As the epidemiology of leptospirosis evolves, increasing numbers of cases in the developed world are associated with travel and recreational activities particularly after heavy rains and flooding. Travellers participating in adventure/ecotourism, water-based sports activities, athletic endurance events, mountain biking and military exercises have an increased chance of exposure, especially if travelling to high-risk destinations. Veterinarians and humanitarian relief/aid workers are at risk when travelling overseas to work.
Travellers at increased risk should be advised:
No vaccine is available in Britain although some countries may have limited supplies of locally produced vaccine for those at serious occupational risk; its effectiveness is uncertain.
There is insufficient evidence to recommend pre-exposure prophylaxis with doxycycline against leptospirosis.
For further information see Leptospirosis.