Dr. Fazil Khodabocus: "We are facing hemorrhagic leptospirosis in Mauritius, and it's quite virulent"

Twenty cases of leptospirosis have been reported since the beginning of the year in Mauritius, five of which were fatal. Dr. Fazil Khodabocus, acting director of health services, sounds the alarm and urges quick medical consultation at the first signs of symptoms.

Even though the current leptospirosis situation is not worse than in previous years, Dr. Khodabocus refuses to be complacent. "Every new case and every death is one too many," he states. He calls for heightened vigilance to prevent the situation from worsening.

The virulence of the disease in the Mauritian context particularly concerns the doctor. "We are dealing with hemorrhagic leptospirosis in Mauritius, and it is quite virulent." Dr. Khodabocus notes that at least two patients have presented at a health center already showing jaundice, one of the complications of the disease.

The most recent death tragically illustrates this delay in seeking medical help. It involved a gardener in his sixties who arrived at the hospital around April 25th. He already exhibited advanced jaundice and was dehydrated. After being placed under observation in the intensive care unit of SAJ Hospital, the patient passed away on Friday, May 1st, despite the care provided.

In light of these severe cases, the acting director of health services advocates for immediate consultation at the first symptoms. "The first symptoms of leptospirosis are fever and muscle pain. When a patient goes to a health service, they need to mention their profession and if they have had contact with water in the last three weeks," he explains. Based on this information, the treating physician can decide to proceed with a screening test. However, Dr. Khodabocus acknowledges that patients sometimes fail to provide complete information about their potential sources of contamination.

Comparing with the island of La Réunion offers some insights. While the sister island is experiencing an "exceptional resurgence" this year with 168 reported cases, it has only recorded one death to date. Dr. Khodabocus attributes this difference, in part, to greater transparency among Réunionnais patients towards healthcare providers. "In La Réunion, they might be a bit more liberal and openly discuss the illnesses they might have," he suggests. He also notes that the nature of contaminations differs.

In Mauritius, the disease affects individuals primarily due to their professions—such as waste collectors, farmers, gardeners, or construction workers—whereas in La Réunion, cases are often linked to recreational freshwater activities like swimming, fishing, or canyoning. "They are likely more aware of the disease and go to health centers for antibiotics. That's probably the difference."

With regular media coverage of the issue, Dr. Khodabocus believes the population is now better informed. He emphasizes not to delay consulting a doctor upon the first appearance of symptoms and to inform them of any possible contact with rats in the preceding days.

Nevertheless, there is a glimmer of hope. Leptospirosis is a "seasonal" disease that mainly occurs during rainy periods. "The leptospire bacteria are more present during humid periods and develop less in winter," Dr. Khodabocus notes. With the country entering the winter season, he anticipates a gradual decrease in cases. "Like in La Réunion, we have reached the peak of the disease," he highlights.

In the meantime, individual protective measures remain essential. Dr. Khodabocus recommends that those working the land or collecting garbage wear gloves and boots. "Even those staying at home should avoid walking barefoot, even inside the house." Diabetic individuals are particularly at risk: in case of foot injuries, they may not feel an open wound through which the bacteria could enter the body. "Diabetics with foot injuries need to treat them promptly and not trivialize them." He advises washing drink cans before opening them as a precaution.

To date, of the twenty cases recorded since the start of the year, two are still active. The two patients are hospitalized, and their health condition is stable.

In 2024, according to recent statistics, the country recorded the highest number of leptospirosis cases, with 80 reported. The cyclone Belal caused flooding and water accumulation, leading to an increase in cases. This year, eighteen deaths are reported, twelve of which are directly related to leptospirosis. In 2025, nine deaths were recorded out of 41 reported cases.

A more methodical follow-up on leptospirosis is being considered to better understand and combat the problem. Dr. Khodabocus announces that additional analyses will be conducted in the coming days to identify the type of leptospire circulating in Mauritius and to determine whether rats are the only vectors or if other factors are involved.

A meeting is planned with the relevant section of the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC), which is considering offering assistance to Mauritius on this matter. The Ministry of Health intends to work closely with the Ministry of Agro-Industry to strengthen collaboration between the two sectors.

Regarding rodent control efforts, a request has been made to intensify "rodent control" exercises. The IOC has also been approached to provide training sessions for personnel engaged in such operations. Local communities and the private sector are also contributing.

To limit the presence of rats, the public is advised against discarding food scraps haphazardly. Leptospirosis is typically transmitted when a person comes into contact with rat urine.