Saint Benoit

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by contact with water or soil contaminated by animal urine. It is a significant health problem worldwide, with nearly one million cases annually and a mortality rate ranging from 5 to 10%, increasing up to 50% in severe cases. In Reunion Island, leptospirosis is common due to the climate, with many cases requiring hospitalization and intensive care. This research focuses on studying the long-term effects of leptospirosis beyond one year after infection, as some patients experience chronic symptoms such as fatigue, kidney issues, muscle weakness, and neurological or cardiac problems. The study involves biological sampling, including blood and urine collection, to analyze immune responses and detect ongoing infection. Samples are processed and stored for further testing. Patients who were hospitalized for confirmed leptospirosis within the last 12 to 18 months and are part of a prior cohort are invited to participate. The study includes clinical and biological data collection through questionnaires and medical follow-up. Participants will have medical visits and telephone interviews to assess their health status, quality of life, and use of alternative medicines. The main outcome measured is the proportion of patients experiencing chronic symptoms two years after infection. The study also collects information on health literacy and complementary health approaches. Participants are expected to be residents of Reunion and able to respond to phone questionnaires, with follow-up planned for up to one year after enrollment.