RESUMEN

Leptospirosis, a neglected zoonotic disease, adversely affects animal, human health, and socioeconomic conditions, particularly in developing countries like Nigeria. This study aimed to determine the occurrence and molecular identification of pathogenic Leptospira spp. among abattoir workers, cattle, and rats in Jos North, Plateau State, Nigeria. Using a cross-sectional study design, a total of 394 samples were collected, including 149 urine samples from abattoir workers, 125 urine samples from cattle bladders, and 120 bladders from trapped rats. Samples were processed and cultured in Ellinghausen McCullough Johnson Harrison (EMJH) medium and examined under a darkfield microscope. Positive cultures were confirmed using the Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT) and nested Polymerase Chain Reaction (N-PCR) targeted the 16 S rDNA gene. Results revealed a prevalence of 33.76 % for Leptospira spp. across all samples, with the highest occurrence in abattoir workers (13.96 %), followed by rats (13.45 %), and cattle (6.35 %). The MAT showed L. interrogans serovar Hardjo str. Hardjoprajitno as the most prevalent serotype (41.61 %), followed by L. interrogans serovar Icterohaemorrhagiae str. RGA (34.31 %). N-PCR confirmed the presence of pathogenic Leptospira spp., showing bands of 1200 bp. Phylogenetic analysis of the 16 S rDNA gene sequences revealed close similarities to known pathogenic Leptospira strains from Brazil and the USA. The study underscores the significant public health risk posed by leptospirosis in Jos North and highlights the need for improved diagnostic capabilities, increased awareness, and effective control measures to mitigate the disease burden. Enhanced surveillance and preventive strategies are crucial to protect both animal and human health in the region.

Asunto(s)

Mataderos , Leptospira interrogans , Leptospirosis , Animales , Nigeria/epidemiología , Leptospirosis/epidemiología , Leptospirosis/microbiología , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Bovinos , Ratas , Estudios Transversales , Leptospira interrogans/genética , Leptospira interrogans/aislamiento & purificación , Humanos , ARN Ribosómico 16S/genética , ADN Bacteriano/genética , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/microbiología , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/epidemiología , Prevalencia , Masculino , Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa , Pruebas de Aglutinación , Serogrupo , Filogenia , Femenino

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Leptospiraceae comprise a diverse family of spirochetal bacteria, of which many are involved in infectious diseases of animals and humans. Local leptospiral diversity in domestic animals is often poorly understood. Here we describe the incidental detection of Leptospira (L.) licerasiae in an Austrian pig. CASE PRESENTATION: During an experiment to characterize the pathogenesis of L. interrogans serovar Icterohaemorrhagiae in pigs, cultivation of a urine sample from a non-challenged contact pig resulted in growth of a spirochetal bacterium that tested negative for pathogenic Leptospira (LipL32 gene). PCR, Sanger sequencing and standard serotyping further confirmed that the recovered isolate was clearly different from the challenge strain L. interrogans serovar Icterohaemorrhagiae used in the animal experiment. Whole genome sequencing revealed that the isolate belongs to the species L. licerasiae, a tropical member of the Leptospiraceae, with no prior record of detection in Europe. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first report describing the occurrence of L. licerasiae in Europe. Since L. licerasiae is considered to have intermediate pathogenicity, it will be important to follow the geographical distribution of this species and its pathogenic and zoonotic potential in more detail.

Asunto(s)

Leptospira , Leptospirosis , Enfermedades de los Porcinos , Animales , Porcinos , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Leptospirosis/microbiología , Leptospira/aislamiento & purificación , Leptospira/genética , Enfermedades de los Porcinos/microbiología , Austria

RESUMEN

Leptospirosis is an anthropozoonosis of economic and public health importance, caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospira. Horses are deemed important in its transmission chain due to their proximity to humans, and because the species is often asymptomatic, making these animals potential silent reservoirs. In this context, the objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of seropositive horses for Leptospira spp., and to identify the presence of Leptospira spp. serogroups and antibody titers, the occurrence of areas with higher density of infection cases and demographic characteristics associated with seropositivity in the states of Paraíba (PB), Pernambuco (PE), Rio Grande do Norte (RN) and Ceará (CE), in the Northeast region of Brazil, during rainy (May and June) and dry (October and November) seasons from 2017 to 2019. Using the microscopic agglutination test (MAT), 1152 equine serum samples from 225 municipalities were analyzed. Anti-Leptospira antibodies were detected in 23.9 % (95 % CI= 21.4 - 26.3 %) of the samples in the three-year period, with a frequency of 30.4 % (95 % CI= 26.7 - 34.2 %) during the rainy period (with greater emphasis on the Ballum serogroup) and 17.4 % (95 % CI= 14.3 - 20.5 %) in the dry period (with greater emphasis on the Sejroe serogroup). Age of horses ≥ 6 years (6-10 years, 11-15 years and ≥ 16 years), rainy season, and animal belonging to Pernambuco state were factors with higher seropositivities. Regarding spatial distribution, a higher percentage of seropositive animals was observed in Pernambuco (P < 0.05), in interstate border areas, and large urban centers, with a spatial cluster detected in the dry season of 2018 with relative risk of 2.8 (P = 0.049) times higher in municipalities within the cluster. It is suggested that measures for controlling rodents and contact with wild animals in equine farming, both in rainy and dry periods, combined with care regarding the use of pastures shared with cattle and the adoption of immunoprophylaxis are important in preventing and controlling leptospirosis in horses in the Northeast region of Brazil.

Asunto(s)

Enfermedades de los Caballos , Leptospira , Leptospirosis , Estaciones del Año , Animales , Caballos , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Leptospirosis/epidemiología , Leptospirosis/microbiología , Brasil/epidemiología , Enfermedades de los Caballos/epidemiología , Enfermedades de los Caballos/microbiología , Leptospira/aislamiento & purificación , Leptospira/inmunología , Estudios Seroepidemiológicos , Prevalencia , Masculino , Femenino , Anticuerpos Antibacterianos/sangre , Análisis Espacial , Serogrupo

RESUMEN

Leptospirosis is a widespread zoonosis in tropical regions and it is not frequently recognised in developed countries. We report a case of leptospirosis transmitted from a pet dog. A middle-aged woman was referred to our emergency department with a 7-day history of fever and diarrhoea. She presented with hypotension, tachycardia, grasping pain in the entire muscle and petechiae. A detailed medical interview revealed that her pet dog had been to the veterinarian 1 month earlier with similar symptoms. We treated her with intravenous antibiotics. The patient's diagnosis of leptospirosis was confirmed by serological testing and the detection of DNA in her urine. We contacted the veterinarian and shared the information. We found that the dog had suffered from leptospirosis based on serological testing. We emphasise the possibility of leptospirosis being transmitted from pet dogs. Persistent suspicion of leptospirosis will contribute to its diagnosis and improved public health.

Asunto(s)

Antibacterianos , Enfermedades de los Perros , Leptospirosis , Mascotas , Leptospirosis/diagnóstico , Leptospirosis/tratamiento farmacológico , Leptospirosis/transmisión , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Perros , Humanos , Animales , Femenino , Enfermedades de los Perros/diagnóstico , Enfermedades de los Perros/microbiología , Enfermedades de los Perros/tratamiento farmacológico , Persona de Mediana Edad , Antibacterianos/uso terapéutico , Mascotas/microbiología , Zoonosis/diagnóstico , Zoonosis/transmisión , Zoonosis/microbiología

RESUMEN

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease whose transmission is linked to multiple factors involving the interface between animals, humans, and the environment. This disease is of great importance for public health, as it profoundly affects the health aspects of the population and animals. Considering the importance of non-human primates in this epidemiological chain, the objective of this research was to conduct a systematic literature review with meta-analysis, providing information on leptospirosis in non-human primates (NHPs) and an update on the infection situation in Brazil and other countries. Thus, a search was performed in five databases, initially finding 3332 studies, of which 32 met the eligibility criteria and were used for the systematic review. According to them, the most prevalent serogroup in non-human primates was Icterohaemorrhagiae, which is adapted to rodents as primary hosts. A wide distribution of the infection was found in the regions of both wild and captive animals. Through meta-analysis, the seroprevalence rate of leptospirosis in non-human primates was 27.21% (CI 17.97-38.95%). Cochran's Q test (p < 0.01) identified heterogeneity between studies, classified as high by the Higgins and Thompson test (I2 = 92.4%). Therefore, seroepidemiological and Leptospira isolation studies in non-human primates are important to investigate and monitor the suspected impact of these species as maintainers or transmitters of the pathogen to humans and other wild and domestic animals, in addition to demonstrating the need for standardization related to control and prevention measures.

Asunto(s)

Leptospirosis , Primates , Animales , Leptospirosis/epidemiología , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Leptospirosis/microbiología , Estudios Seroepidemiológicos , Primates/microbiología , Leptospira/inmunología , Leptospira/aislamiento & purificación , Enfermedades de los Monos/epidemiología , Enfermedades de los Monos/microbiología , Zoonosis/epidemiología , Zoonosis/microbiología

RESUMEN

Leptospirosis is a common but underdiagnosed zoonosis. We conducted a 1-year prospective study in La Guaira State, Venezuela, analyzing 71 hospitalized patients who had possible leptospirosis and sampling local rodents and dairy cows. Leptospira rrs gene PCR test results were positive in blood or urine samples from 37/71 patients. Leptospira spp. were isolated from cultured blood or urine samples of 36/71 patients; 29 had L. interrogans, 3 L. noguchii, and 4 L. venezuelensis. Conjunctival suffusion was the most distinguishing clinical sign, many patients had liver involvement, and 8/30 patients with L. interrogans infections died. The Leptospira spp. found in humans were also isolated from local rodents; L. interrogans and L. venezuelensis were isolated from cows on a nearby, rodent-infested farm. Phylogenetic clustering of L. venezuelensis isolates suggested a recently expanded outbreak strain spread by rodents. Increased awareness of leptospirosis prevalence and rapid diagnostic tests are needed to improve patient outcomes.

Asunto(s)

Brotes de Enfermedades , Leptospira , Leptospirosis , Filogenia , Roedores , Animales , Leptospirosis/epidemiología , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Leptospirosis/microbiología , Leptospirosis/diagnóstico , Humanos , Venezuela/epidemiología , Bovinos , Leptospira/genética , Leptospira/aislamiento & purificación , Leptospira/clasificación , Femenino , Roedores/microbiología , Adulto , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/microbiología , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/epidemiología , Adolescente , Leptospira interrogans/genética , Leptospira interrogans/aislamiento & purificación , Leptospira interrogans/clasificación , Adulto Joven , Estudios Prospectivos , Niño , Anciano , Enfermedades Endémicas , Zoonosis/epidemiología , Zoonosis/microbiología , Preescolar

RESUMEN

Veterinary and human medicine are focused on the issue of emerging and re-emerging diseases, which are especially represented by zoonosis that could be a threat for public health. Zoonotic risk may come from pets: some canine and/or feline viral, bacterial, parasitic, protozoal or mycotic diseases can be transmitted directly to humans. There are several strategies to prevent the transmission of such zoonosis, and among them vaccination plays an important role. Through a survey carried out in Northern Italy aimed to collect information regarding owners' knowledge and perception of the zoonotic risks associated with three zoonoses (rabies, leptospirosis, and dermatophytosis), it was demonstrated that dog owners tend to adhere more consistently to their pets' vaccination schedules and are more receptive to changes in vaccination scheduling compared to cat owners. This study also suggests that cat owners predominantly visit veterinarians for vaccination purposes, whereas dog owners seek veterinary services for a variety of reasons. The survey highlighted the ongoing need to enhance owners' understanding of zoonoses affecting their pets and also the protective role of vaccines. Veterinarians should undertake the responsibility of educating, reassuring, and informing pet owners about the significance of vaccines for their pets and for public health.

Asunto(s)

Enfermedades de los Gatos , Enfermedades de los Perros , Conocimientos, Actitudes y Práctica en Salud , Mascotas , Rabia , Vacunación , Zoonosis , Animales , Italia/epidemiología , Humanos , Gatos , Perros , Zoonosis/prevención & control , Zoonosis/transmisión , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Enfermedades de los Perros/epidemiología , Enfermedades de los Perros/prevención & control , Enfermedades de los Perros/transmisión , Enfermedades de los Gatos/epidemiología , Enfermedades de los Gatos/prevención & control , Enfermedades de los Gatos/transmisión , Enfermedades de los Gatos/parasitología , Rabia/prevención & control , Rabia/transmisión , Rabia/epidemiología , Rabia/veterinaria , Vacunación/veterinaria , Leptospirosis/epidemiología , Leptospirosis/prevención & control , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Leptospirosis/transmisión , Masculino , Femenino , Adulto , Persona de Mediana Edad , Propiedad , Salud Pública

RESUMEN

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic bacterial disease spread through the urine of infected animals; the typical incubation period is 5-14 days. In approximately 90% of human cases, illness is asymptomatic or mild, characterized by fever, chills, myalgia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, calf pain, and conjunctival suffusion, but severe illness can progress to multiorgan dysfunction and death. Although Wyoming is considered a low-risk area for leptospirosis because of its cold and semiarid climate, the Wyoming Department of Health was notified of a probable human case in August 2023, the first reported in the state since 1983. The patient had occupational exposure to dogs but did not report other risk factors. The same week that the human patient's illness began, public health authorities received notification of an increase in canine leptospirosis cases. Public health authorities investigated to determine potential sources of infection, identify additional cases, and recommend control measures. After public health outreach activities were implemented, canine vaccination practices changed substantially in the affected city: a survey conducted after the outbreak revealed that all responding veterinary clinics in the affected city were recommending the vaccine more frequently to dog owners and reporting higher levels of owner compliance with vaccination recommendations. Increased vaccination coverage offers protection from leptospirosis for both dogs and persons exposed to them. Leptospirosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of persons with occupational exposure to animals and clinically compatible signs and symptoms, including fever, chills, myalgia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, calf pain, and conjunctival suffusion, irrespective of geographic location.

Asunto(s)

Brotes de Enfermedades , Enfermedades de los Perros , Leptospirosis , Humanos , Animales , Leptospirosis/epidemiología , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Perros , Enfermedades de los Perros/epidemiología , Wyoming/epidemiología , Masculino , Femenino , Adulto

RESUMEN

A simple IgG-specific ELISA for Leptospira spp. was compared with the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) to detect IgG antibody responses to a commercial vaccine in cattle. We used an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with sonicated Leptospira interrogans serovar copenhageni M 20. After initial vaccination, specific antibodies against Leptospira spp. were detected in 90 % of the animals by IgG-ELISA and 60 % by MAT, while after booster, antibodies were detected in 100 % and 80 % of the animals by IgG-ELISA and MAT, respectively. Both serological MAT and ELISA tests revealed interferences of vaccine antibodies. Disease diagnosis with ELISA and MAT methods should be made two and a half months and four months, respectively, after vaccination to avoid interference of vaccine antibodies. On the other hand, our results suggest that IgG-ELISA may be a useful method to assess the development of IgG antibodies induced by Leptospira vaccine.

Asunto(s)

Pruebas de Aglutinación , Anticuerpos Antibacterianos , Vacunas Bacterianas , Enfermedades de los Bovinos , Ensayo de Inmunoadsorción Enzimática , Inmunoglobulina G , Leptospirosis , Animales , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Leptospirosis/diagnóstico , Leptospirosis/inmunología , Bovinos , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/microbiología , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/diagnóstico , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/inmunología , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/sangre , Ensayo de Inmunoadsorción Enzimática/veterinaria , Anticuerpos Antibacterianos/sangre , Vacunas Bacterianas/inmunología , Inmunoglobulina G/sangre , Pruebas de Aglutinación/veterinaria , Leptospira interrogans/inmunología , Leptospira/inmunología , Vacunación/veterinaria , Pruebas Serológicas/veterinaria

RESUMEN

Leptospirosis is a significant zoonotic disease affecting livestock, leading to reproductive issues and economic losses. Despite its endemic status in India, research has predominantly focused on coastal regions, leaving the North Eastern Region (NER) underexplored. This study aims to investigate the seroprevalence and serogroup distribution of leptospirosis in livestock across Assam, a major state in the North Eastern Region (NER) of India. Serum samples (n=811) from cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, and pigs were collected between 2016 and 2019 and screened using the Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT) for 24 serogroups. The overall seroprevalence was 22.9 % (186/811), with highest prevalence in cattle (26.2 %) and buffalo (25 %), followed by small ruminants (19.8 %) and pigs (18.6 %) . Notably, uncommon serovars such as Mini (28.8 %), Manhao (12.4 %), and Cynopteri (7.5 %) were identified, indicating a unique epidemiological pattern in Assam. High seroprevalence was observed in districts like Bongaigaon (66.7 %), Kamrup Metropolitan (50.0 %), and Nalbari (40.0 %), emphasizing the need for targeted intervention strategies. The presence of these uncommon serogroups, typically found in neighbouring countries and other regions, suggests potential transboundary transmission from these countries. This study provides valuable insights into the seroprevalence and serogroup distribution of leptospirosis in Assam's livestock, highlighting the need for region-specific surveillance and control measures. These findings underscore the importance of understanding the local epidemiological landscape to develop effective disease management and prevention strategies, ultimately reducing the impact of leptospirosis in the NER of India.

Asunto(s)

Leptospira , Leptospirosis , Ganado , Serogrupo , Animales , Leptospirosis/epidemiología , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Leptospirosis/microbiología , Estudios Seroepidemiológicos , India/epidemiología , Leptospira/inmunología , Leptospira/clasificación , Ganado/microbiología , Bovinos , Porcinos , Ovinos , Anticuerpos Antibacterianos/sangre , Cabras/microbiología , Búfalos/microbiología , Prevalencia

RESUMEN

INTRODUCTION: Leptospirosis is a neglected emerging and zoonotic disease reported worldwide. This study sought to determine the molecular and serological prevalence of Leptospira spp. and the associated risk factors in slaughtered cattle from the Bahr El Ghazal region of South Sudan. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 16th and February 25th, 2023, blood and urine samples were collected from 402 cattle at the Lokoloko Municipal Slaughterhouse in Western Bahr El-Ghazal State. Serum samples were tested using the microscopic agglutination test (MAT), with a panel of 12 serovars (sv) from 12 serogroups (sg) and 4 species (spp) of Leptospira spp. These serovars had been previously identified in Sudan and the East African region. Simultaneously, 400 corresponding urine samples were screened using qualitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect the shedding of Leptospira spp. in urine. To identify the associated risk factors, the age, sex, breed and body condition score of each sampled cattle was noted at the time of sampling and subsequently analysed using logistic regression models. RESULTS: Among the 402 serum samples screened, a substantial 81.8% (329/402, 95% CI 77.9-85.3) displayed seropositivity for Leptospira spp. with a MAT titre ≥ 100. The prevalence of urine shedding determined by PCR was 6% (23/400, 95% CI 3.8-8.4), while probable recent leptospirosis with a MAT ≥ 1:800 was observed in 33.1% (133/402, 95% CI 28.6-37.8) of the cattle. Multiple reactions were detected in 34.8% (140/402, 95% CI 30.6-39.5) serum samples. The seropositivity was against L. borgpetersenii sg. Tarassovi (78.6%; 316/402, 95% CI 74.4-82.3), followed by L. borgpetersenii sg. Ballum at 20.4% (82/402, 95% CI, 16.7-24.4%), L. kirschneri sg. Autumnalis At 8.7% (35/402, 95% CI 5.7-11.7), L. interrogans sg. of Pomona at 7.0% (28/402, 95% CI 4.5-9.5), and L. interrogans sg. Hebdomadis was 5.0% (20/402, 95% CI 2.8-7.2). Several risk factors are associated with seropositivity. Older animals (≥ 2 years) had 2.0 times greater odds (95% CI 1.14-3.5) of being seropositive than younger animals (< 2 years), P-value = 0.016. Female animals demonstrated 2.1 times greater odds (95% CI 1.2-3.6) of seropositivity than males did (P-value = 0.008). Additionally, Felata/Mbororo cattle exhibited 2.4 times greater odds (95% CI 1.3-4.5) of being seropositive than did local Nilotic cattle (P-value = 0.005). The agreement between the MAT and PCR results was poor, as indicated by a kappa statistic value of 0.001 and a P-value of 0.913. But there was a moderate agreement between MAT high titres ≥ 800 and PCR positivity with a kappa statistic value = 0.501 and a P-value < 0.001. CONCLUSION: In addition to the high seroprevalence, Leptospira spp. were found in the urine of slaughtered cattle, suggesting that leptospirosis is endemic to the study area. This finding underscores the significance of cattle as potential sources of infection for slaughterhouse workers, the general public, and other animal species. To address this issue effectively in the Bahr El Ghazal Region and South Sudan, a comprehensive strategy involving a multidisciplinary approach is essential to minimize disease among animals, hence reducing potential zoonotic risks to humans.

Asunto(s)

Mataderos , Enfermedades de los Bovinos , Leptospira , Leptospirosis , Animales , Bovinos , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Leptospirosis/epidemiología , Leptospirosis/microbiología , Leptospira/aislamiento & purificación , Leptospira/genética , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/epidemiología , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/microbiología , Factores de Riesgo , Femenino , Masculino , Prevalencia , Sudán del Sur/epidemiología , Estudios Seroepidemiológicos , Anticuerpos Antibacterianos/sangre

Asunto(s)

Enfermedades de los Perros , Leptospirosis , Salud Única , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Leptospirosis/prevención & control , Leptospirosis/epidemiología , Animales , Enfermedades de los Perros/prevención & control , Perros

RESUMEN

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease caused by the pathogenic spirochaetes of the genus Leptospira. It is a public health concern in the Pacific Islands and is considered endemic in Palau. However, information on the genotypes and serotypes of causative Leptospira spp. in the country is limited. In this study, we isolated leptospires and detected antileptospiral antibodies in dogs and pigs. The isolates were characterized using a serological method and whole-genome sequencing. Leptospira interrogans was isolated from five of the 20 symptomatic dogs and one of the 58 healthy pigs. Their serogroups were identified as Icterohaemorrhagiae and Pyrogenes; however, the serogroup of one isolate could not be determined. Anti-Leptospira antibodies were detected in 14.4% (26/181) of the dogs and 20% (10/50) of the pigs. The reactive serogroups in dogs and pigs were almost identical, except for the Panama serogroup. Core genome multilocus sequence typing revealed that five of the six core genome sequence types (cgSTs) were newly identified in this study. The cgSTs from the serogroup Icterohaemorrhagiae isolates belonged to the same group as the Copenhageni and Icterohaemorrhagiae serovars isolated in other countries, whereas no similar cgSTs were identified in the Pyrogenes or unidentified serogroup strains. We demonstrated a high incidence of canine and porcine leptospirosis and identified new L. interrogans genotypes (cgSTs) circulating in Palau. Further investigations are needed to determine whether dogs and pigs serve as maintenance hosts for newly identified L. interrogans genotypes and whether they pose a risk of leptospirosis transmission to humans.

Asunto(s)

Enfermedades de los Perros , Leptospirosis , Enfermedades de los Porcinos , Animales , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Leptospirosis/epidemiología , Leptospirosis/microbiología , Perros , Porcinos , Enfermedades de los Perros/microbiología , Enfermedades de los Perros/epidemiología , Enfermedades de los Porcinos/microbiología , Enfermedades de los Porcinos/epidemiología , Leptospira/genética , Leptospira/inmunología , Leptospira/clasificación , Leptospira/aislamiento & purificación , Leptospira interrogans/genética , Leptospira interrogans/inmunología , Leptospira interrogans/aislamiento & purificación , Leptospira interrogans/clasificación , Serogrupo , Secuenciación Completa del Genoma , Anticuerpos Antibacterianos/sangre , Genotipo , Tipificación de Secuencias Multilocus

RESUMEN

Rodents are typically viewed as asymptomatic reservoirs for leptospirosis infection, as clinical disease in rodents is rarely described. This report includes three separate cases of leptospirosis in Patagonian maras (Dolichotis patagonum) over a 3-yr period in multiple locations within a single zoo. All three cases presented with varying clinical signs including lethargy, conjunctival hyperemia, hyperbilirubinemia, and presumed renal azotemia. Infection with Leptospira spp. was diagnosed antemortem by PCR on whole blood (n = 1, Case 1) or urine (n = 2, Cases 2 and 3). Leptospira antibody titers measured by serum microagglutination testing (n = 3) were elevated or increased in all three animals over a 1-3-wk period for Leptospira serovars Bratislava and Hardjo (Case 1) and Grippotyphosa (Case 2 and 3). Two of the three animals responded to treatment with penicillin and doxycycline and supportive care, whereas one animal did not respond to treatment. Postmortem findings in this individual included conjunctivitis, chemosis, dehydration, icterus, tricavitary serosanguinous effusions, necrotizing hepatitis, diffuse pulmonary congestion, and edema. Immunohistochemical examination identified scattered Leptospira organisms within hepatocytes and renal tubular epithelial cells. A wild raccoon (Procyon lotor) at the institution tested positive by PCR on kidney tissue for the same Leptospira spp. serovar and was the suspected source of infection. This case series highlights the clinical importance of leptospirosis as a differential for Patagonian maras presenting with lethargy, ocular signs, acute hepatic disease, and azotemia.

Asunto(s)

Animales de Zoológico , Antibacterianos , Leptospira , Leptospirosis , Animales , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Leptospirosis/patología , Leptospirosis/microbiología , Leptospirosis/diagnóstico , Masculino , Femenino , Antibacterianos/uso terapéutico , Leptospira/aislamiento & purificación , Enfermedades de los Roedores/microbiología , Enfermedades de los Roedores/patología , Roedores

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Pathogenic Leptospira species are globally important zoonotic pathogens capable of infecting a wide range of host species. In marine mammals, reports of Leptospira have predominantly been in pinnipeds, with isolated reports of infections in cetaceans. CASE PRESENTATION: On 28 June 2021, a 150.5 cm long female, short-beaked common dolphin (Delphinus delphis delphis) stranded alive on the coast of southern California and subsequently died. Gross necropsy revealed multifocal cortical pallor within the reniculi of the kidney, and lymphoplasmacytic tubulointerstitial nephritis was observed histologically. Immunohistochemistry confirmed Leptospira infection, and PCR followed by lfb1 gene amplicon sequencing suggested that the infecting organism was L.kirschneri. Leptospira DNA capture and enrichment allowed for whole-genome sequencing to be conducted. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed the causative agent was a previously undescribed, divergent lineage of L.kirschneri. CONCLUSIONS: We report the first detection of pathogenic Leptospira in a short-beaked common dolphin, and the first detection in any cetacean in the northeastern Pacific Ocean. Renal lesions were consistent with leptospirosis in other host species, including marine mammals, and were the most significant lesions detected overall, suggesting leptospirosis as the likely cause of death. We identified the cause of the infection as L.kirschneri, a species detected only once before in a marine mammal - a northern elephant seal (Mirounga angustirostris) of the northeastern Pacific. These findings raise questions about the mechanism of transmission, given the obligate marine lifestyle of cetaceans (in contrast to pinnipeds, which spend time on land) and the commonly accepted view that Leptospira are quickly killed by salt water. They also raise important questions regarding the source of infection, and whether it arose from transmission among marine mammals or from terrestrial-to-marine spillover. Moving forward, surveillance and sampling must be expanded to better understand the extent to which Leptospira infections occur in the marine ecosystem and possible epidemiological linkages between and among marine and terrestrial host species. Generating Leptospira genomes from different host species will yield crucial information about possible transmission links, and our study highlights the power of new techniques such as DNA enrichment to illuminate the complex ecology of this important zoonotic pathogen.

Asunto(s)

Leptospira , Leptospirosis , Animales , Leptospira/aislamiento & purificación , Leptospira/genética , Leptospira/clasificación , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Leptospirosis/microbiología , Leptospirosis/epidemiología , California/epidemiología , Femenino , Filogenia , Delfín Común/microbiología

RESUMEN

Bats from three provinces in Vietnam (Lai Chau, Son La, and Dong Thap) were examined for the presence of pathogenic Leptospira or specific antibodies using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and microscopic agglutination test (MAT). Tissue specimens from 298 bats belonging to 11 species were analyzed using a real-time PCR assay specific for leptospires of pathogenic species. Leptospiral DNA was identified in 40 bats from following species: Rousettus amplexicaudatus (5/9; 55.5 %), Rousettus leschenaultii (17/42; 40.4 %), Myotis hasseltii (8/25; 32 %), Taphozous longimanus (3/12; 25 %), and Eonycteris spelaea (7/32; 21.9 %). Based on secY phylogeny, sequences from M. hasseltii bore a strong resemblance to L. borgpetersenii. Sequences from other species revealed unique lineages: one of them resembled Leptospira sp., previously identified in Rousettus madagascariensis (Madagascar) and Rousettus aegyptiacus (South Africa); the second lineage showed close relation to L. kirshneri; and the third held an intermediary position between L. noguchii and L. interrogans. Through ELISA, anti-Leptospira antibodies were found in 83 of 306 bats, with the highest seroprevalence observed in R. leschenaultii (44/48; 91.6 %), R. amplexicaudatus (6/8; 75 %), and E. spelaea (19/25; 76 %). 66 of these ELISA-positive samples were tested using MAT; 41 of them were confirmed in MAT as positive. The predominant serogroups in our study were Tarassovi and Mini.

Asunto(s)

Anticuerpos Antibacterianos , Quirópteros , Ensayo de Inmunoadsorción Enzimática , Leptospira , Leptospirosis , Filogenia , Animales , Quirópteros/microbiología , Vietnam/epidemiología , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Leptospirosis/epidemiología , Leptospirosis/microbiología , Leptospira/genética , Leptospira/clasificación , Leptospira/aislamiento & purificación , Leptospira/inmunología , Anticuerpos Antibacterianos/sangre , ADN Bacteriano/genética , Pruebas de Aglutinación , Reacción en Cadena en Tiempo Real de la Polimerasa , Análisis de Secuencia de ADN

RESUMEN

This study examines household pets as potential epidemiological links between environments contaminated with pathogenic leptospires and humans in Santa Fe, Argentina. The aims of our study were: (a) to characterize the habits and exposure to environmental sources of leptospirosis in the population of dogs and cats attending to municipal spay and neutering campaigns in Santa Fe, Argentina, (b) to assess the seroprevalence of anti-Leptospira antibodies in asymptomatic dogs and cats, (c) to evaluate factors that could increase seropositivity, and (d) to identify spatial clusters of seropositive dogs and cats in the capital city of Santa Fe. From May to November 2022, a cross-sectional serosurvey was conducted during municipal spaying/neutering campaigns. Eligible household dogs and cats were over 6 months old, apparently healthy, and not vaccinated against leptospirosis in the past 6 months. We used microagglutination test (MAT) to assess anti-Leptospira antibodies using a panel of 10 reference strains. We used generalized linear mixed effects models (GLMM) to examine individual and census tract-level risk factors for seropositivity, and local Moran's I statistic for spatial clusters. Results showed higher leptospiral antibody prevalence in dogs (18.2 %) than cats (3.6 %, p = 0.002). Dogs with street access had higher likelihood of being seropositive (OR: 3.8, 95 % CI: 1.2; 11.9), and areas with chronic poverty showed an elevated risk of presenting seropositive animals (RR: 4.0, 95 % CI: 1.1; 14.4). Spatial analysis didn't reveal significant seropositivity clusters among census tracts. These findings shed light on widespread Leptospira seropositivity in pets in this endemic region. Understanding seroprevalence and risk factors can guide public and veterinary health strategies, emphasizing increased leptospirosis vaccination for dogs in vulnerable areas and promoting responsible pet care.

Asunto(s)

Anticuerpos Antibacterianos , Enfermedades de los Gatos , Enfermedades de los Perros , Leptospira , Leptospirosis , Animales , Perros , Gatos , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Leptospirosis/epidemiología , Leptospirosis/microbiología , Enfermedades de los Perros/epidemiología , Enfermedades de los Perros/microbiología , Enfermedades de los Perros/inmunología , Estudios Seroepidemiológicos , Argentina/epidemiología , Enfermedades de los Gatos/epidemiología , Enfermedades de los Gatos/microbiología , Leptospira/inmunología , Anticuerpos Antibacterianos/sangre , Estudios Transversales , Masculino , Femenino , Factores de Riesgo , Prevalencia , Enfermedades Endémicas/veterinaria , Ciudades/epidemiología

RESUMEN

There are few studies that effectively quantify the economic losses resulting from problems caused by leptospirosis in naturally infected dairy cattle. Given this gap, the objective of this study was to propose and apply a method to quantify the economic losses resulting from productive and reproductive problems in a commercial dairy herd naturally infected by Leptospira spp. For this study, the zootechnical and economic indicators at a property with Jersey cattle were analyzed during the period from 2014 to 2017. The leptospirosis outbreak occurred in 2014, and the therapeutic approach was carried out between 2015 and 2017, with the latter considered the year of control of the outbreak. The adopted integrated control strategy consisted of dividing the herd according to the serological results obtained through the microscopic agglutination test, the treatment of reagents with streptomycin, and vaccination against leptospirosis of non-reagent heifers and cows. The method used to evaluate the economic indicators of the property was the calculation of the gross margin by taking into account the implicit and explicit cost parameters associated with the manifestation of leptospirosis. The prevalence rate of leptospirosis decreased from 49.4 % in 2015 to 21.6 % in 2017. There was a reduction in the abortion rate (from 40.00 % in 2014 to 9.00 % in 2017), in the stillborn rate (from 2.63 % in 2014 to 1.69 % in 2017) and an increase in the calving rate (from 65.00 % in 2014 to 86.00 % in 2017). In addition, there were increases in the number of lactating cows (from 38 in 2014-57 in 2017) and the mean times of lactation duration, which increased from 275 days in 2014-295 days in 2017. As a result, the average annual production of milk increased from 164,655 liters in 2014-248,521 liters in 2017. In 2014, when treatment hadn't yet started, the gross margin per liter of milk sold, considering implicit and explicit costs, was US$0.00. In 2015 and 2016, US$0.27 and US$0.30 were obtained, respectively, for this variable. In 2017, with the disease under control on the property, the gross margin per liter of milk reached US$0.36. The gross margin per liter of milk sold was higher in the period when the disease was controlled, showing losses of up to 84 % of the gross margin during the outbreak. Immediate treatment of positive cows and preventive measures had a significant impact on improving the productive and economic efficiency of the property.

Asunto(s)

Enfermedades de los Bovinos , Industria Lechera , Leptospirosis , Animales , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Leptospirosis/epidemiología , Leptospirosis/prevención & control , Leptospirosis/economía , Bovinos , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/economía , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/epidemiología , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/prevención & control , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/microbiología , Industria Lechera/economía , Femenino , Prevalencia , Brotes de Enfermedades/veterinaria , Brotes de Enfermedades/prevención & control , Leptospira

RESUMEN

This study evaluates the diagnostic efficacy of urinary biomarkers, Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin (uNGAL), and Kidney Injury Molecule-1 (uKIM-1), in identifying Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) in dogs affected with leptospirosis or babesiosis. Acute kidney injury was diagnosed based on the increase in serum creatinine levels above 0.3 mg/dL within 48 h and dogs were categorized according to AKI grades based on International Renal Interest Society guidelines. Traditional biomarkers (serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen) and novel biomarkers like urinary NGAL and urinary KIM-1 levels were measured and compared to concentrations obtained in control dogs. Statistical analysis assessed significant differences (P < 0.01) across AKI grades, specifically noting elevated urinary NGAL and KIM-1 in IRIS grade I AKI (P < 0.001). The study highlights the diagnostic significance of urinary NGAL and KIM-1 as early indicators of renal damage, particularly valuable in non-azotemic AKI cases, offering promising markers for early AKI diagnosis in veterinary clinical settings. These biomarkers demonstrate clinical utility and underscore their potential for improving AKI management in veterinary medicine. Further validation studies involving larger cohorts and diverse etiologies of AKI are needed to confirm the diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility of urinary NGAL and KIM-1 in veterinary practice.

Asunto(s)

Lesión Renal Aguda , Babesiosis , Biomarcadores , Enfermedades de los Perros , Leptospirosis , Lipocalina 2 , Animales , Perros , Enfermedades de los Perros/orina , Enfermedades de los Perros/diagnóstico , Lesión Renal Aguda/veterinaria , Lesión Renal Aguda/orina , Lesión Renal Aguda/diagnóstico , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Leptospirosis/orina , Leptospirosis/diagnóstico , Leptospirosis/complicaciones , Babesiosis/orina , Babesiosis/diagnóstico , Babesiosis/complicaciones , Biomarcadores/orina , Lipocalina 2/orina , Masculino , Femenino , Receptor Celular 1 del Virus de la Hepatitis A/metabolismo , Proteínas de Fase Aguda , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas , Lipocalinas

RESUMEN

We evaluated antibodies against Leptospira spp. in both free-living and captive Caiman latirostris from Atlantic Forest, and free-living Caiman yacare from Pantanal, Brazil, by using a microscopic agglutination test. Overall seropositivity was 17%, with rates of 36% in captive C. latirostris (n=4/11) and 18% in free-living C. yacare (n=4/22).

Asunto(s)

Caimanes y Cocodrilos , Animales Salvajes , Anticuerpos Antibacterianos , Leptospira , Leptospirosis , Animales , Leptospirosis/veterinaria , Leptospirosis/epidemiología , Brasil/epidemiología , Leptospira/inmunología , Caimanes y Cocodrilos/microbiología , Anticuerpos Antibacterianos/sangre , Animales de Zoológico , Estudios Seroepidemiológicos , Masculino