Leptospirosis Outbreak at Berkeley Encampment Prompts Urgent Public Health Action

Berkeley public health officials warn of a leptospirosis outbreak at the Harrison and Eighth Street homeless encampment, where two dogs have died and rat-based transmission could threaten humans; a health alert and a designated 'red zone' for cleaning have been issued, pets should be vaccinated, and encampment sweeps remain blocked by a federal court order, fueling debate over temporary hotel housing as a cost‑effective containment option.