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Leptospirosis Death on Zakynthos Triggers Health Alert for Greek Islands

Wednesday, 22 April 2026/SourceCretaOne/1 min read
A 60-year-old man has died from leptospirosis on the Greek island of Zakynthos, with two additional cases recently confirmed, prompting a public health alert across Greek islands. Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection transmitted through contact with water or soil contaminated by infected animal urine, particularly rodents. While this outbreak occurred on Zakynthos rather than Crete, visitors to all Greek islands should take precautions: avoid swimming in stagnant freshwater, streams, or flooded areas, wear footwear in rural and agricultural zones, and wash hands thoroughly after contact with animals or soil. If you experience fever, muscle pain, or jaundice within two weeks of potential exposure, seek medical attention promptly and inform the doctor of your travel history.

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