Leptospirosis in France (Ariege)

According to media (in French) on 10 September 2021, public health authorities have reported about 10 cases of leptospirosis in the Ariege department of France. Ariege is a mountainous area near the border with Spain. All of the cases have been involved in water activities in the River Argensou at Auzat. Anyone becoming unwell after fishing, swimming or canyoning in the area has been advised to seek medical attention.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection transmitted to humans from the urine of infected animals (often rodents). Infection often occurs from water contaminated by infected animal urine.

Advice to Travellers

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 known-risk destinations.

Travellers at increased risk should be advised:

• of the risk of infection and to seek medical help after potential exposure if they become symptomatic
• to avoid exposure to potentially contaminated water especially of mucosa (swallowing/inhaling water) and abraded skin (including excoriated insect bites)
• to wear protective clothing if exposure is unavoidable
• to cover open skin lesions with waterproof plasters and wash/disinfect any injuries sustained during possible exposure
• to wash/shower thoroughly after possible exposure.

No licensed vaccine is available in the UK for leptospirosis.

For further information, see TRAVAX Leptospirosis page.