Often called “rat disease”, leptospirosis is caused by bacteria found in freshwater or muddy water. This is why certain professions (garbage collectors, drainers, breeders, etc.) are particularly at risk, as are people who practice water sports. As proof, the death of a 44-year-old triathlete, who has just succumbed to leptospirosis, probably due to a bacterium present in the lake where he was training.
The Regional Health Agency (ARS) took water samples to establish whether there is a link between the lake and the contamination. This can in fact also be done by contact of a wound with urine left by a rat or any other rodent.
600 people affected each year
In mainland France, the disease affects around 600 people each year. But the incidence is between 50 and 100 times higher in the overseas communities underlines the Institut Pasteur. In general, the disease causes symptoms identical to those of a flu syndrome (fever, chills, headaches, muscle pain …). But, in rare cases, it can progress to damage to the liver, kidneys, lungs, or even cause bleeding.
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