Leptospirosis in health centre in Tumbes, Peru

So far this year, there have been 659 people reported to be infected with leptospirosis. However, in the district of Corrales, 11 of the 19 cases reported in the last month have been health workers in the district health centre. The health centre has been closed for complete disinfection.

Advice

Leptospirosis is usually acquired through skin exposure (especially if there are open wounds) to water or damp soil that has been contaminated by an infected animal’s urine. For travellers, this exposure is higher after a period of heavy rainfall or flooding. For this unusual situation, travellers can reduce the risk of exposure by avoiding the health care centre, if possible, until disinfection is completed.