Distribution and Diversity of Pathogenic Leptospira Species in Peri-domestic Surface Waters from South Central Chile |
| |
| Authors: | Meghan R Mason Carolina Encina Srinand Sreevatsan Claudia Mu?oz-Zanzi |
| |
| Institution: | 1Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America;2Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile;3College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States of America;Institut Pasteur, FRANCE |
| |
| Abstract: | BackgroundLeptospirosis is a neglected zoonosis affecting animals and humans caused by infection with Leptospira. The bacteria can survive outside of hosts for long periods of time in soil and water. While identification of Leptospira species from human cases and animal reservoirs are increasingly reported, little is known about the diversity of pathogenic Leptospira species in the environment and how surveillance of the environment might be used for monitoring and controlling disease.ConclusionsThis study reports the presence of pathogenic Leptospira in the peri-domestic environment of households in three community types and the differences in Leptospira diversity at the community level. Systematic environmental surveillance of Leptospira can be used for detecting changes in pathogen diversity and to identify and monitor contaminated areas where an increased risk of human infection exists. |
| |
| Keywords: | |
|
|
