Resurgence of Leptospirosis and Chikungunya: CTSP Warns of Risks for Garbage Collectors
In light of the rising cases of leptospirosis and chikungunya in Mauritius, the Confederation of Workers in the Public and Private Sectors (CTSP) has raised alarms regarding the situation faced by garbage collectors and waste management agents. In a statement issued this week, the CTSP highlighted that these workers operate daily in environments exposed to stagnant water, contaminated waste, rodents, and unsanitary conditions, all of which contribute to the spread of these diseases. Consequently, they represent a particularly high-risk professional group in the current health context.
Leptospirosis is transmitted through contact with water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected rodents, while chikungunya is spread by mosquitoes that thrive especially in poorly managed waste.
The CTSP believes that immediate and coordinated measures are necessary, in accordance with the obligations set out in the Occupational Safety and Health Act 2005 and the public health mandate of the Ministry of Health.
The confederation claims to have officially contacted the relevant authorities to demand several actions, including urgent inspections of waste collection depots and services, updates to biological risk assessments, as well as the provision and regular renewal of personal protective equipment.
It also calls for enhanced rat control and vector management campaigns, the establishment of preventive medical monitoring for exposed workers, consideration of a temporary risk allowance, and a public awareness campaign on the proper management and disposal of waste.
For the CTSP, it is unacceptable that those who contribute daily to public health protection are themselves inadequately protected. The confederation reminds that garbage collectors play a vital role in the country's health safety and urges authorities to act swiftly to prevent avoidable infections and ensure compliance with legal obligations regarding health and safety at work.
