OutbreakItem - TRAVAX

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services in Fiji have reported 160 cases of leptospirosis and 5 confirmed deaths as of 13th February 2021, which is above the expected level for this time of the year throughout the nation.

The climate in Fiji is tropical and the wet season runs from November-April. This can result in flooding caused by heavy rains and cyclones which can occasionally lead to outbreaks of leptospirosis.

Advice for Travellers

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.

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 high-risk destinations. Veterinarians and humanitarian relief/aid workers are at risk when travelling overseas to work.

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.