Leptospirosis alert in Occitania: several cases detected

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About ten people caught leptospirosis after doing nautical activities in Ariège, on the Argensou river. The site immediately closed its doors.

Watch out for all water sports enthusiasts and families who venture into Ariège. The Occitanie Regional Health Agency called for vigilance this Saturday, September 11. Indeed, several cases of leptospirosis have been detected in recent days, near the river Argensou. The infected individuals practiced nautical activities, in particular canyoning since the virus is transmitted by the fresh water of rivers and lakes. In its press release, the ARS invites those concerned to consult a health professional to assess possible symptoms: “To date, around ten confirmed or probable cases have been reported”, she announced in her press release.

To prevent any spread of this virus, the site immediately closed its doors “upon confirmation of the first case.” But what is leptospirosis? It is a bacterial disease transmitted by rodents, especially rats which “excrete the bacteria in their urine.” It is finally in contact with the skin or a mucous membrane that the virus comes into contact with humans. Note that the incubation period is particularly long. Allow between 5 and 20 days before the first symptoms appear.

A disease often without sequelae

Fortunately, the symptoms of this bacterial disease very rarely lead to particular complications. However, the variety of possible signs is wide: fever, headache, rash or digestive disorders. If the virus is detected in time, antibiotic treatment is sufficient to cure it. In 80% of cases, leptospirosis is not a fatal disease. Conversely, it can cause the development of a hemorrhagic syndrome and lead to kidney failure.

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