Leptospirosis Surveillance in Réunion. Epidemiological Update as of October 20, 2022.

Key Points

  • With 155 cases reported as of September 20, the uninterrupted increase in the annual reporting rate observed since 2017 continues into 2022.

  • The epidemic maintained its usual seasonal pattern (between January and May) with a peak in March. The majority of cases were men (95%) with a median age of 56 years (min=6; max=83). Cases were primarily located in the South (55%) or the West (21%).

  • In 55% of cases, respondents did not report any occupational activity (unemployed, retired, or students). When they reported an occupation at risk for leptospirosis, the majority were farmers or livestock breeders. No cases reported being water recreation professionals.

  • Cases primarily presented with a febrile syndrome or pain syndrome, accompanied by thrombocytopenia, liver, and/or kidney involvement. Antibiotic treatment was initiated in 94% of cases.

  • In nearly 7 out of 10 cases, hospitalization was necessary (average duration of 6.4 days), and in 1 out of 4 cases, admission to the intensive care unit was reported. Three cases were fatal.

  • To reduce the number of leptospirosis cases and the associated public health impact, management and prevention measures must be strengthened. This involves, in particular, the precise identification of contamination sites and the implementation of field interventions aimed at limiting reservoir populations, including rats.

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