A halt to canyoning activities was expected to be announced early this week for Ariège, in the SW region of Occitanie, following confirmation of leptospirosis in a person who had descended the Argensou canyon. Test results for two fellow canyoners also suspected to have contracted the bacterial infection are pending. The popular tourist area is located in an area of pastures and rugged mountains near the French borders with Spain and Andorra. Read more
Advice for travellers
Leptospirosis is spread through the urine of infected animals, typically rats. The bacterium enters the body through the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, or mouth, as well as through broken skin. Outbreaks are typically associated with exposure to floodwaters, making leptospirosis a low risk for most travellers. Read more about leptospirosis.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.