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Teen Contracts Leptospirosis After Swimming in Prohibited River in Isère, France
Bourgoin-Jallieu, Isère, France - A 16-year-old boy contracted leptospirosis, a rare but perhaps serious bacterial disease, after swimming in the Bourbre river in Bourgoin-Jallieu, Isère, despite a prohibition due to poor water quality. The incident occurred in early August, according to reports from Le Dauphiné Libéré and Midi Libre.
the teenager, who was swimming with friends to escape the heat, began experiencing symptoms including fever, vomiting, and diarrhea a few days later. he was hospitalized and spent a week recovering. His family is now urging others to heed warnings and avoid swimming in areas with known water quality issues.
Leptospirosis is transmitted by rodents or domestic animals and can contaminate water sources. While rare in temperate climates like France, with 600-700 cases annually, it is a reportable disease for epidemiological monitoring. The illness can range in severity from flu-like symptoms to weil’s syndrome, a more serious form that can cause neurological complications, including convulsions, coma, and even death. Globally, approximately one million cases of severe leptospirosis are reported each year.
In 2024, Martinique experienced an increase in cases, resulting in three fatalities, particularly in rural areas, according to overseas the 1st and a report from France Public Health.
Authorities are also addressing the proliferation of cyanobacteria in rivers across France,leading to the closure of several bathing sites.
