Leptospirosis in Fiji - Eastern Division

According to the Pacific Community, a leptospirosis outbreak was reported in Kadavu Medical Subdivision, Eastern Division of Fiji on 22 June 2012. There have been 29 confirmed cases, 42 hospital admissions and 1 death.

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.