Mauritius has reported 20 leptospirosis cases since January 2026, with five deaths as of 5 May and two stable active cases under observation. Several severe cases presented late, already with jaundice, suggesting delayed medical consultation. The latest fatality was a 60-year-old gardener from Montagne Blanche with underlying conditions, who arrived at hospital with advanced jaundice and dehydration. Authorities have identified more than 90 rat-breeding sites in Beau Bassin-Rose Hill and Quatre Bornes, highlighting environmental risk from rodent-contaminated soil and water. Nearby Réunion is also experiencing a major rise in leptospirosis cases, but with a lower reported fatality rate than Mauritius.

Leptospirosis is primarily transmitted through the urine of rodents, especially rats, contaminating water sources such as rivulets, puddles, or mud. Humans can become infected through direct or indirect contact with contaminated urine via small skin cuts or mucous membranes. Clinical manifestations range from flu-like symptoms to aseptic meningitis and sepsis.