Rats trigger health crisis in Mauritius with leptospirosis outbreak

Twenty cases of severe infectious disease have been detected in Mauritius since the beginning of 2024. The local Ministry of Health has reported that rats are behind the outbreak. Their significant presence poses a considerable challenge for the country.

The disease impacting Mauritius is leptospirosis, a bacterial illness spread through contact with water contaminated by rat urine. It can infect humans not just by ingesting contaminated water but also through contact with the eyes, nose, mouth, or open wounds.

The Ministry of Health in Mauritius cautions that the bacteria can be contracted by showering at the beach or walking barefoot through stagnant water, like puddles.

Individuals infected by the bacteria experience symptoms such as high fever, chills, headaches, and muscle and joint aches. Moreover, leptospirosis can lead to complications affecting the kidneys, liver, and lungs. Those exhibiting symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.

The island of Reunion, a French territory nearby, is facing a similar challenge with leptospirosis. Since January of this year, 204 cases have been reported there.

Leptospirosis spreads rapidly, largely due to a plague of rats in Mauritius. Much of the island is covered with sugar cane fields, providing an ideal habitat and food source for these rodents. In addition to spreading diseases, rats also pose a threat to the indigenous bird and turtle populations.