Risk Factors For Leptospirosis Research Articles

Analysis of Complement Factor H gene polymorphisms and their association with clinical manifestations ofleptospirosis.

Leptospirosis is caused by pathogenic leptospires, posing a significant public health problem. Host susceptibility to Leptospira infection is a multifactorial trait, and the host's genetic background can influence both the establishment of infection and the severity of the disease. Complement Factor H (FH) plays a crucial role in the interaction between pathogenic bacteria and the host. Genetic variants in the FH gene CFH have previously been associated with non-infectious diseases. Here, we aimed to analyze the effect of CFH variants on individual susceptibility to leptospirosis and disease severity. To accomplish this, we sequenced CFH exons 7, 9, 21, 22, and 23 in a case/control cohort (184/162) from two endemic leptospirosis areas in Brazil and Argentina. We identified twenty-one single nucleotide variants (SNVs). In the Brazilian cohort, the intronic variant rs34815383 exhibited a higher frequency in patients than in controls, resulting in a significant association with leptospirosis (p = 0.032; OR: 0.32; 95% CI 0.1-1) and also renal disorder (p = 0.001; OR: 5.3; 95%CI 1.8-15.57). This SNV is reported to be a splicing variant, negatively impacting CFH expression, and has previously been associated with Complement-driven renal disease. A second synonymous variant, rs61822181, was significantly less frequent in patients than in controls (p = 0.002; OR: 7.33; 95% CI 1.59-33.7), representing a protective factor against the development of leptospirosis. Our study represents the first documentation of the frequency of CFH SNVs in South America and identifies the variant rs34815383 T > C as a risk factor for leptospirosis and leptospirosis-related renal complications.

Leptospirosis seroprevalence and risk factors among slaughterhouse workers in Burkina Faso

ObjectivesThe objectives of this study were to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors of leptospirosis among slaughterhouse workers in Burkina Faso. MethodsWe performed a cross-sectional survey of slaughterhouse workers from Ouagadougou and Bobo Dioulasso between March and April 2021. Blood was collected by venipuncture and serum samples were tested using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and microscopic agglutination test. Questionnaires were used to collect information from these workers on sociodemographic characteristics, work activities, knowledge of zoonosis, and risky behaviors. ResultsOf the 172 subjects investigated, 28 (16.28%) were found seropositive for leptospirosis using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay or microscopic agglutination test. The main Leptospira infecting serogroup were Mini, Autumnalis, Canicola, Copenhageni, L. mayottensis (ND), Icterohaemorrhagiae, Pyrogenes/Tarassovi (cross reaction), Panama, and Ballum. Risk factors according to multivariate analysis, included residence (P = 0.02), working at the bleeding station (P = 0.03), contact with feces and urine (P = 0.04), and the practice of agriculture outside the slaughterhouse (P = 0.05). ConclusionThese findings indicate that a significant proportion of slaughterhouse workers are being exposed to pathogenic Leptospira. Public-health interventions against leptospirosis will need to target this occupational group. Proper personal protective equipment and information about the disease should be disseminated among slaughterhouses.

Seroprevalence and risk factors of leptospirosis in dairy cattle at some selected coastal areas in Barishal district, Bangladesh

Background: Leptospirosis is a worldwide distributed zoonotic disease which affects humans and animals in countries with humid, tropical and subtropical climates. It is a well known cause for abortion, stillbirth or birth of weak calf. The present study was performed to investigate the seroprevalence, risk factors and biochemical values of bovine leptospirosis in dairy cattle at the mentioned area. Methods: A cross sectional study was performed from February 2021 to January 2022. A total of 240 serum samples of dairy cattle were investigated by rapid test (Genomix Bovine LeptospiraAb Rapid Detection Test KitR). The serum samples were further assessed for biochemical analysis. Risk factors were identified by multivariable logistic regression analysis. Results: The overall prevalence of bovine leptospirosis in dairy cattle was 10%. The odds of leptospirosis was 3.21 (96% CI: 1.20; 8.54) higher in crossbred cows than local cows. In addition, pregnant cows were at 3.66 times higher risk for leptospirosis than non-pregnant cows. The serum creatinine level was significantly higher (0.94±0.06) in disease positive cows than healthy ones (0.73±0.05). Conclusions: Female crossbred cows should be targeted for future control and surveillance programs in the study area.

Spatial\u2013temporal patterns and risk factors for human leptospirosis in Thailand, 2012\u20132018

Leptospirosis is a globally important zoonotic disease. The disease is particularly important in tropical and subtropical countries. Infections in humans can be caused by exposure to infected animals or contaminated soil or water, which are suitable for Leptospira. To explore the cluster area, the Global Moran’s I index was calculated for incidences per 100,000 population at the province level during 2012–2018, using the monthly and annual data. The high-risk and low-risk provinces were identified using the local indicators of spatial association (LISA). The risk factors for leptospirosis were evaluated using a generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) with zero-inflation. We also added spatial and temporal correlation terms to take into account the spatial and temporal structures. The Global Moran’s I index showed significant positive values. It did not demonstrate a random distribution throughout the period of study. The high-risk provinces were almost all in the lower north-east and south parts of Thailand. For yearly reported cases, the significant risk factors from the final best-fitted model were population density, elevation, and primary rice crop arable areas. Interestingly, our study showed that leptospirosis cases were associated with large areas of rice production but were less prevalent in areas of high rice productivity. For monthly reported cases, the model using temperature range was found to be a better fit than using percentage of flooded area. The significant risk factors from the model using temperature range were temporal correlation, average soil moisture, normalized difference vegetation index, and temperature range. Temperature range, which has strongly negative correlation to percentage of flooded area was a significant risk factor for monthly data. Flood exposure controls should be used to reduce the risk of leptospirosis infection. These results could be used to develop a leptospirosis warning system to support public health organizations in Thailand.

Cross sectional analysis of factors associated with leptospirosis cases treated at district general hospital, Matara, Sri Lanka during 2015-2018

Background: Leptospirosis is a zoonotic illness with a global disease burden impacting both developed and developing nations and is caused by pathogenic spirochetes of the genus Leptospira. In this study, selected characteristics of confirmed leptospirosis cases were studied; hence modifiable risk factors were elucidated. This information would be useful to prevent further transmission of leptospirosis by public health care workers in Sri Lanka and take appropriate administrative decisions regarding leptospirosis control in the community. Methods: This was a descriptive cross sectional survey of Bed Head Tickets (BHTs), Case Surveillance Forms of confirmed leptospirosis cases treated at district general hospital, Matara during 2015-2018. The study was conducted from 21.02.2019 to 01.03.2019.Results: Age >35 years (OR 3.92:, 95% CI:2.72-5.65), male sex (OR:2.30, 95% CI:1.61-3.29), paddy field as source of infection (OR:2.45, 95% CI:1.69-3.54), positive history of recent skin lesions/injury (OR:2.29, 95% CI:1.58-3.34), (OR:3.14, 95% CI:1.62-6.06), (OR:2.88, 95% CI:1.31-6.36), (OR:2.13, 95% CI:1.27-3.58) were risk factors for leptospirosis. Positive history of chemo prophylactic treatment (doxycycline administration) and its duration were not associated with leptospirosisConclusions: Age >35 years (OR 3.92:, 95% CI:2.72-5.65), male sex (OR:2.30, 95% CI:1.61-3.29), paddy field as source of infection (OR:2.45, 95% CI:1.69-3.54), positive history of recent skin lesions/injury (OR:2.29, 95% CI:1.58-3.34) were risk factors for leptospirosis.

Distribution Serovar and Risk Factors on the Incidence of Canine leptospirosis After Flood in Jakarta, Indonesia

Leptospirosis is a zoonosis, which has become a serious problem, especially in areas with high rainfall. Massive leptospirosis occurs after heavy rains or floods. This study aims to analyze the types and distribution of leptospira bacteria serovars and risk factors for leptospirosis in post-flood dogs. The research was conducted from January to March 2020 at the Ragunan Animal Hospital and independent clinics in Jakarta, Bekasi, Depok and South Tangerang. This study used a cross-sectional study of serum samples from 24 dogs suspected of leptospirosis. Diagnostic techniques are based on questionnaires and clinical symptom evaluation, physical examination and biochemical analysis, serum and hematology, and the Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT) test. The sample criteria were dogs with leukocytosis, thrombocytopenia, azotemia with Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) and high keratin. The sample then tested the MAT. Measurement of risk factors in the form of variable questionnaires with laboratory test results using the Chi-square test. Leptospira serovars were identified as bataviae (9 samples), icterohaemorrhagiae (6 samples), tarassovi (4 samples) and javanica (2 samples). The distribution of leptopsira serovars in the study area is quite diverse. Risk factors that increase the incidence of leptospirosis in dogs are the maintenance system (OR 17.50), history of contact with rats (OR 9.625), flood-affected areas (OR 3.50) and drinking water sources (OR 1.643). Floods can be a medium for transmitting leptospira bacteria to dogs. Risk factors such as rearing systems, poor sanitation and a history of contact with rats can increase the incidence of leptospirosis in dogs in areas with high rain intensity. The role of dog owners is needed in preventing the incidence of leptospirosis in dogs.

Situational Analysis of Leptospirosis in Sik, Kedah, Malaysia: 2014 - 2017

INTRODUCTION: Leptospirosis is endemic in Malaysia. Over the past decade, there have been an increased in the number of leptospirosis cases and outbreaks. Previous leptospirosis studies examined the incidence rate, disease burden and risk factors for leptospirosis in Malaysia, but not at district or state level. Very little is known about the leptospirosis situation at district or state level. Therefore, we conducted a study to find out about leptospirosis situation in Sik district. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study from January 2014 till December 2017 in Sik District, Kedah. Information on cases admitted to Sik hospital was obtained from the health office of Sik district. Socio-demographic data and laboratory results were obtained from the patient's hospital records. We performed a descriptive analysis, followed by univariate and multivariate analysis. RESULT: From January 2014 until December 2017, 286 suspected cases of leptospirosis were admitted to Sik Hospital. Of the 286 cases, 150 were confirmed cases of leptospirosis and 136 probable cases. In our study, teenager (11-20 years of age) and older adults (aged 51-60 years) were more prone to infection with leptospirosis. Fever, vomiting, anorexia, cough, and myalgia were common symptoms. Laboratory findings in 108 confirmed leptospirosis cases showed a high white blood cell count of more than 10 X 109/L in half of the patients (50.0%), a serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) of more than 50 U/L in 41 cases (38.0%), a platelets count of less than 150 X 109/L in 39 cases (36.1%), a serum creatinine kinase more than 308 U/L in 39 cases (36.1%) and serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) less than 50 U/L in 33 cases (30.6%). Multivariate analysis showed leptospirosis infection was associated with cough (p=0.02. 95% CI=0.28-0.91) and abdominal pain (p=0.03, 95%CI =1.07-4.93). In our study, a higher number of leptospirosis cases were due to household infection compared to recreational activities. CONCLUSION: Teenagers and the elderly were more prone to leptospirosis infection, and the trend of household infection is increasing compared to recreational activities. Therefore, by knowing the current situation, the causes and the source of infection will help in the development of better control and prevention measures for leptospirosis.

Risk factors for leptospirosis and brucellosis in people living with human immunodeficiency virus who attended a referral hospital in southeastern Brazil.

INTRODUCTION: Leptospirosis and brucellosis cause immunosuppression that worsens the clinical condition of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). We investigated the serological profile and risk factors of PLWHA. METHODS: Serum samples (n=238) were researched for Brucella spp. antibodies using Rose Bengal and tube agglutination tests and Leptospira spp. antibodies using the microscopic agglutination test. RESULTS: All samples were negative for Brucella spp. For leptospirosis, four samples (1.69%) were positive, and Andamana was the prevalent serovar. CONCLUSIONS: Low or no detection of these zoonoses does not reduce their importance in PLWHA. Vigilant, educational, and preventive measures should be adopted.

Post Flood Chemoprophylaxis with Doxycycline for Leptospirosis in an Endemic Area; Case Control Study

Introduction: During the year 2019, Kerala state experienced flooding during August. Following this mass chemoprophylaxis with doxycycline was given in the flood in affected areas. In this context, the study was conducted with the objectives to identify the risk factors of leptospirosis and to know the usefulness of chemoprophylaxis with doxycycline in an endemic area.
 Methodology: It was conducted at a public sector tertiary care hospital setting. Cases were adult patients admitted in medical ward with confirmed diagnosis of leptospirosis and the controls were selected from the bystanders of the selected cases. Collected data were entered into MS Excel and analyzed using PASW’18 software.
 Results: Among cases (n=38), 84.2% were males and the age was 43.87 (15.5) years. Among controls (n=47), 85.1% were males with age of 45.83 (14.17) years. Out of this, occupational exposure (OR 4.22, 95% CI 1.61 – 11.09, p=0.003) and any wound during past one month (OR 27.6, 95% CI 3.49.17 – 217.75,p=0.001) were significantly associated with incidence of leptospirosis. Intake of doxycycline within 2 weeks of flood was found to be protective (95% OR 0.09, 95% CI 0.01-0.72, p=0.023).
 Conclusion: Our study found that occupational factors, and any wound or injury are important risk factors of leptospirosis and prophylaxis with doxycycline immediately after flood can reduce the risk of leptospirosis.

Seroepidemiology of Leptospira infection in slaughtered cattle in Gauteng province, South Africa.

Leptospirosis is an important economical disease of livestock globally, especially in Asia, the Caribbean, and the African continent. Its presence has been reported in a wide range of livestock. However, information on leptospirosis in South Africa is scanty. We conducted a cross-sectional study in 11 randomly selected abattoirs to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors for leptospirosis in slaughtered cattle in Gauteng province, South Africa. During abattoir visits to selected abattoirs, blood samples were collected from 199 cattle and demographic data obtained on the slaughtered animals. The microscopic agglutination test (MAT) was performed on all sera using a 26-serotype panel using cutoff titer ≥ 1:100. Animal- and abattoir-level risk factors were investigated for their association with seropositivity for leptospirosis. The seroprevalence of leptospirosis in the cattle sampled was 27.6% (55/199). The predominant serogroups detected in seropositive cattle were Sejroe (sv. Hardjo) (38.2%) and Mini sv. Szwajizak) (14.5%) but low to Canicola (sv. Canicola) (1.8%) and Pomona (sv. Pomona) (1.8%). The differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). Of the five variables investigated, only one (abattoirs) had statistically significantly (P < 0.001) differences in the seroprevalence of leptospirosis among abattoirs. The study documented for the first time in South Africa, the occurrence of serogroups Sejroe (Hardjo bovis strain lely 607), Tarassovi, Hebdomadis, and Medanensis in slaughtered cattle. It was concluded that six of the nine serovars (representing seven serogroups) of Leptospira spp. circulating in cattle population in South Africa are not vaccine serogroups. The clinical, diagnostic, and public health importance of the findings cannot be ignored.

A cross-sectional pilot study to estimate the prevalence of and risk factors for leptospirosis in South-Western Victorian dairy herds, 2017.

Leptospirosis is a zoonosis, found worldwide, affecting many species of animals. We conducted a cross-sectional study to estimate the prevalence of Leptospira borgpetersenii sv Hardjo and Leptospira interrogans sv Pomona in cattle in dairy herds in South-Western Victoria, Australia. Fifty-three herds were enrolled in the study. Urine samples were collected from 15 late-lactation cows in each herd. A questionnaire was provided to herd managers at the time of each herd visit, asking them to describe the methods they used for controlling leptospirosis, including vaccination. Urine samples were pooled at the herd level and tested for leptospira spp. using real time PCR. Urine samples from individual cows within the positive pooled samples were then tested for Leptospira Hardjo and Leptospira Pomona using qPCR. Four of the 53 herds showed positive leptospirosis results giving an apparent prevalence of 8 (95% CI 2-18) leptospira-positive herds per 100 herds at risk. Based on the 53 completed questionnaires, leptospirosis vaccination programs were not compliant with label directions in 36 of the 52 vaccinated herds: 69 (95% CI 55-81) of 100 herd managers that routinely vaccinated for leptospirosis did not comply with label directions. One herd was completely unvaccinated. Based on our findings, we estimate that approximately 10% of dairy farms in South-Western Victoria are likely to be infected with leptospirosis. While most herds are vaccinating for leptospirosis, most are not doing so according to label directions. We conclude that herd managers need to be better educated regarding leptospirosis vaccination programs.

Seroepidemiological prevalence of Leptospira spp. in dairy cattle herds of the Doge River region in the State of Espírito Santo

The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of Leptospirosis in dairy herds of the Rio Doce, ES, composed of six municipalities: Aracruz, Ibiraçu, João Neiva, Linhares, Rio Bananal and Sooretama. The properties were randomly selected, with two properties per municipality. It was admitted as a criterion for selecting these properties because they did not present the management of anti-Leptospira vaccination in the animals. The number of blood samples in each property was according to the availability of animals, which totaled 100 blood samples. The serological technique used was Microscopic Soroagglutination (SAM). Serum samples were submitted to dilutions of 10 (ten) live antigens, including the serovars L. australis, L. butembo, L. copenhageni, L. bratislava, L. canicola, L. grippothyphosa, L. hardjo prajitno, L. L. pomol, L. icterohaemorrhagiae, L. Wolffi of the genus Leptospira spp. of the species interrogans.The prevalence of serovars in this study was from Wolffi (24%); Bratislava (15%); Hardjo prajitno (11%); Pomona (10%); Butembo (10%); Australis (8%); Canicola (5%); Ichterohaemorragiae (5%); Grippotyphosa (4%); Copenhageni (3%). The results demonstrate that bovine Leptospirosis is present in the mesoregion with 50% prevalence in individuals, the main risk factors being non-vaccination, presence of rodents, joint breeding and open herd.

Seroprevalence and Risk Factors of Leptospirosis among Slaughtered Cattle and Abattoir Workers in Ngaoundéré, Cameroon

Seroprevalence and Risk Factors of Leptospirosis among Slaughtered Cattle and Abattoir Workers in Ngaoundéré, Cameroon

Seroprevalence and associated risk factors of leptospirosis in slaughter pigs; a neglected public health risk, western Kenya

BackgroundLeptospirosis is a neglected zoonosis of public health importance transmitted through contact with contaminated soil, water or urine of infected animals. In pigs the disease is characterized by abortion, still births and weak piglets. A cross-sectional study was conducted in May to July 2018 to estimate the sero-prevalence of leptospirosis and factors associated with seropositivity in slaughter pigs. A questionnaire was used to collect information on animal demographics. Serum was tested for anti-leptospiral antibodies using microscopic agglutination test (MAT) with a panel of 8 serovars. Sera were considered positive for sero-reactivity at a MAT titre ≥1:40 against at least one serovar. Chi-square tests were used to measure the strength of association between the MAT test result and exploratory variables.ResultsA total of 252 pig serum samples from seven slaughterhouses were tested for Leptospira antibodies by MAT. Of the 252 pigs sampled, 88.8% (244/252) were indigenous breeds; 55.6% (140/252) were female and 88.7% (220/252) were reared in extensive production systems. Eighty-three (32.9%; 83/252) sera samples tested positive on MAT against at least one serovar. Of the 8 serovars, the highest prevalence was recorded for serovar Lora 21.4% followed by Kenya 5.2%, Sokoine 3.6% and Grippotyphosa at 3.2%. Risk factors for leptospirosis seropositivity in pigs were: originating from farms with other types of livestock (OR 2.3; 95% CI 1.0–4.5) and mature pigs (OR 1.9; 95% CI 1.1–3.3).ConclusionThis study demonstrates that there is a high prevalence of leptospirosis positive pigs at slaughter in a small-holder livestock keeping region of the Lake Victoria basin. The potential for cross species transmission of pathogenic serovars is highlighted as well as the potential for occupational exposure to slaughterhouse personnel. Improvements in husbandry practices (confinement and rodent control) and public health education among slaughterhouse workers and other high-risk groups is recommended.

Mechanistic dose-response modelling of animal challenge data shows that intact skin is a crucial barrier to leptospiral infection.

Leptospirosis is a widespread and potentially life-threatening zoonotic disease caused by spirochaetes of the genus Leptospira. Humans become infected primarily via contact with environmental reservoirs contaminated by the urine of shedding mammalian hosts. Populations in high transmission settings, such as urban slums and subsistence farming communities, are exposed to low doses of Leptospira on a daily basis. Under these conditions, numerous factors determine whether infection occurs, including the route of exposure and inoculum dose. Skin wounds and abrasions are risk factors for leptospirosis, but it is not known whether broken skin is necessary for spillover, or if low-dose exposures to intact skin and mucous membranes can also cause infection. To establish a quantitative relationship between dose, route and probability of infection, we performed challenge experiments in hamsters and rats, developed mechanistic dose-response models representing the spatial dynamics of within-host infection and persistence, and fitted models to experimental data. Results show intact skin is a strong barrier against infection, and that broken skin is the predominant route by which low-dose environmental exposures cause infection. These results identify skin integrity as a bottleneck to spillover of Leptospira and underscore the importance of barrier interventions in the prevention of leptospirosis. This article is part of the theme issue 'Dynamic and integrative approaches to understanding pathogen spillover'.

Investigation of Risk Factors Associated with Leptospirosis in the North of Iran (2011-2017).

The risk factors for infection with leptospirosis in Iran have never been studied. We aimed to determine the risk factors of leptospirosis and the epidemiological pattern of this disease in Golestan Province, Iran during 2011-2017. A case-control study. This case-control study was performed on the population of patients diagnosed with leptospirosis. Controls were selected from the residents of Golestan province, northern Iran and were matched with the cases for gender, age group, and place of residence. After coding the data collected in checklists, the analysis was performed in SPSS using independent t-test, logistic regression, contingency tables, and Fisher exact test. Eighty-seven cases were diagnosed infected with leptospirosis. Most patients were male (69.0%) and residents of rural areas (82.7%). The three leading risk factors for leptospirosis were exposure to stagnant rice paddy water while having a skin scratch/injury (OR=11.21, 95% CI: 3.02, 43.06), washing the face with stagnant rice paddy water (OR=11.33, 95% CI: 5.12, 25.01), and sighting of rats or rat nest in rice paddies (OR=3.30, 95% CI: 1.01, 11.62). For farmers working in stagnant and muddy waters of rice paddies, occupational protection measures such as wearing waterproof boots, gloves, support, and socks can reduce the chance of infection with leptospirosis. Health education of the people with susceptible occupations about the transmission and prevention methods can also play a key role in controlling this disease.

An outbreak of leptospirosis among reserve military recruits, Hulu Perdik, Malaysia.

Here, we investigated an outbreak of leptospirosis among reserve military recruits that occurred following a survival exercise in the Hulu Perdik forest within the Hulu Langat district, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Blood samples from the 12 patients that presented symptoms for febrile illness on clinical examination were subjected to laboratory investigation, comprising Lepto IgM rapid test, IgM ELISA, and microscopic agglutination test (MAT). All these patients were interviewed for possible risk factors for leptospirosis. Rodent trapping and environmental sampling for possible isolation of leptospires in the outbreak site was performed. The isolated leptospires were genetically characterized and investigated for the potential epidemiological link with human leptospirosis. Among the 12 patients, two (2/12; 16.6%) were confirmed positive for leptospirosis by microscopic agglutination test (MAT with titers 400-800; serovar autumnalis and hardjobovis). Two Leptospira species from rodents (L. interrogans and L. borgpetersenii) and two from the environment (L. kmetyi and L. wolffii) were identified. The possible epidemiological link between human serovars and animal Leptospira species indicates rodents as the potential reservoir while the environment (soil and water) serves as a transmission route. This investigation highlights the robust presence of pathogenic leptospires on Malaysian environment and rodents which may present the risk of infection, especially among high-risk individuals. Hence, occupational risk individuals are cautioned to observe appropriate preventive measures including prophylaxis and seek immediate medical attention for any illness following similar activities.

The Correlation between Physical Environmental Factors and the Occurrence of Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a disease caused by a bacteria called Leptospira. Environmental risk factors for leptospirosis include biological, social, and physical (river or bodies of water, ditches, puddles, and the distance between the settlement area with garbage disposal area).This research aimed to determine the correlation between the physical environmental factors with the evidence of leptospirosis in Sukahaji Village, Babakan Ciparay District of Bandung City in 2017. The design of this research is a survey with cross-sectional approach. We used 100 population samples in this research. The Technique of obtaining data with observation sheet is using sheet checklist. We did univariate and multivariate data analysis using Chi square.The results showed that most of the population experienced leptrospirosis, and most of the physical environment such as rivers or bodies of water, ditches, puddles, and the distance between settlement area with the garbage disposal area are the risk factors of leptospirosis.

Leptospirosis: Seroprevalence, risk factors, and diagnostic view in a tertiary care center in North India

INTRODUCTION: Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease with clinical manifestations, ranging from subclinical infection to fulminant disease. OBJECTIVE: To study the seroprevalence, various epidemiological risk factors, and diagnostic aspects of leptospirosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred and seventy-one clinically suspected individuals were enrolled in the study at Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital, AMU, Aligarh, during January 2013–May 2014. A detailed history of patients was taken on a predesigned pro forma. Blood sample was collected from the patients, and immunoglobulin M (IgM) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and microscopic agglutination test (MAT) were done for diagnosis. The patients' details were also scored according to the modified Faine's criteria. RESULTS: Of 171 patients, 24 (14.1%) cases were diagnosed positive by IgM ELISA. Contact with dirty surroundings, fieldworkers, history of animal contact, and use of public bathing facilities/ponds were associated with 20 (83.3%), 20 (83.3%) 19 (79.2%), and 18 (75%) cases, respectively. Fifteen (62.5%) cases were diagnosed during July–September (P = 0.004). Fever, myalgia, and abdominal pain were the common symptoms. Calf tenderness was seen in 22 cases (P 25. CONCLUSIONS: Dirty surroundings, fieldworkers, animal contact, and heavy rainfall are the major epidemiological risk factors for leptospirosis. Modified Faine's criteria may play a useful role in diagnosis for a patient with low clinical score.

Occurrence and risk factors of zoonoses in dogs and owners in Sertão, Paraíba State, Northeastern Brazil

Seropositivity and risk factors for visceral leishmaniasis, Chagas disease, toxoplasmosis, and leptospirosis were investigated in 200 dogs and twenty-three owners in a municipality with a history of human cases of visceral leishmaniasis and toxoplasmosis in the region of Sertão, Paraíba State, Northeastern Brazil. In dogs, frequencies of 6% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.7-9.3%), 7.5% (95% CI = 3.8-11.2%), 18% (95% CI = 12.7-23.3%), and 14% (95% CI = 9.2-18.8%) were found for visceral leishmaniasis, Chagas disease, toxoplasmosis, and leptospirosis, respectively. An age of over 72 months and environment conditions (soil) were identified as risk factors for Leishmania chagasi infection. Free housing was identified as risk factor for Trypanosoma cruzi infection. For toxoplasmosis, free housing and contact with cats were found to be risk factors, while commercial food was a risk factor for leptospirosis. Of the twenty-three owners who agreed to participate in the study, eight were tested for leishmaniasis, three for Chagas disease, nine for toxoplasmosis, eleven for leptospirosis, and five were tested for more than one disease. Only anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies were found in the human population at a frequency of 44.4% (4/9); for all other diseases, all individuals were negative. The results indicate that such zoonoses are present in dogs from the studied region, but only toxoplasmosis was found in the owners. Our risk analysis suggests that cleaner soil, better storage of dog food, and avoiding free housing can reduce the risk of infection by these diseases.