Leptospirosis in Tanzania (Lindi)

On 18 July 2022, the Tanzanian Ministry of Health confirmed an outbreak of leptospirosis (Weil’s disease) in Lindi, in the south of the country.

The outbreak had previously been described as a “mystery illness” with 20 cases, 3 of whom had died.

Advice for Travellers

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.

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:

• 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.