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Ifejube OJ, Kuriakose SL, Anish TS, van Westen C, Blanford JI. Analysing the outbreaks of leptospirosis after floods in Kerala, India. Int J Health Geogr 2024; 23:11. [PMID: 38741103 DOI: 10.1186/s12942-024-00372-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
A growing number of studies have linked the incidence of leptospirosis with the occurrence of flood events. Nevertheless, the interaction between flood and leptospirosis has not been extensively studied to understand the influence of flood attributes in inducing new cases. This study reviews leptospirosis cases in relation to multiple flood occurrences in Kerala, India. Leptospirosis data were obtained for three years: 2017 (non-flood year) and two years with flooding-2018 (heavy flooding) and 2019 (moderate flooding). We considered the severity of flood events using the discharge, duration and extent of each flooding event and compared them with the leptospirosis cases. The distribution of cases regarding flood discharge and duration was assessed through descriptive and spatiotemporal analyses, respectively. Furthermore, cluster analyses and spatial regression were completed to ascertain the relationship between flood extent and the postflood cases. This study found that postflood cases of leptospirosis can be associated with flood events in space and time. The total cases in both 2018 and 2019 increased in the post-flood phase, with the increase in 2018 being more evident. Unlike the 2019 flood, the flood of 2018 is a significant spatial indicator for postflood cases. Our study shows that flooding leads to an increase in leptospirosis cases, and there is stronger evidence for increased leptospirosis cases after a heavy flood event than after a moderate flooding event. Flood duration may be the most important factor in determining the increase in leptospirosis infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwafemi John Ifejube
- Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation (ITC), University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands.
| | - Sekhar L Kuriakose
- Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - T S Anish
- Government Medical College, Malappuram, Kerala, India
| | - Cees van Westen
- Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation (ITC), University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Justine I Blanford
- Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation (ITC), University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
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Bridgemohan R, Deitch MJ, Harmon E, Whiles MR, Wilson PC, Bean E, Bridgemohan P, Bisesi JH, Nicholas J, Redhead A, Bachoon DS. Spatiotemporal assessment of pathogenic Leptospira in subtropical coastal watersheds. JOURNAL OF WATER AND HEALTH 2024; 22:923-938. [PMID: 38822470 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2024.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
The World Health Organization classifies leptospirosis as a significant public health concern, predominantly affecting impoverished and unsanitary regions. By using the Pensacola Bay System as a case study, this study examines the underappreciated susceptibility of developed subtropical coastal ecosystems such as the Pensacola Bay System to neglected zoonotic pathogens such as Leptospira. We analyzed 132 water samples collected over 12 months from 44 distinct locations with high levels of Escherichia coli (>410 most probable number/100 mL). Fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) concentrations were assessed using IDEXX Colilert-18 and Enterolert-18, and an analysis of water physiochemical characteristics and rainfall intensity was conducted. The LipL32 gene was used as a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) indicator to identify the distribution of Leptospira interrogans. The results revealed 12 instances of the presence of L. interrogans at sites with high FIB over various land cover and aquatic ecosystem types. Independent of specific rainfall events, a seasonal relationship between precipitation and elevated rates of fecal bacteria and leptospirosis was found. These findings highlight qPCR's utility in identifying pathogens in aquatic environments and the widespread conditions where it can be found in natural and developed areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronell Bridgemohan
- Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences Department, University of Florida IFAS West Florida Research and Education Center, Milton, FL, USA E-mail:
| | - Matthew J Deitch
- Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences Department, University of Florida IFAS West Florida Research and Education Center, Milton, FL, USA
| | - Emily Harmon
- Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences Department, University of Florida IFAS West Florida Research and Education Center, Milton, FL, USA
| | - Matt R Whiles
- Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences Department 2181 McCarty Hall, University of Florida, P.O. Box 110290, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - P Christopher Wilson
- Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences Department 2181 McCarty Hall, University of Florida, P.O. Box 110290, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Eban Bean
- Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, University of Florida Main Office, Room 120 Frazier Rogers Hall1741 Museum Road, Building. 474, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Puran Bridgemohan
- Tropical Research and Education Center, IFAS Research, University of Florida, Homestead, FL 33031, USA
| | - Joseph H Bisesi
- Department of Environmental and Global Health and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jodel Nicholas
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Georgia College and State University, Campus Box 81, Milledgeville, GA 31061, USA
| | - Aaden Redhead
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Georgia College and State University, Campus Box 81, Milledgeville, GA 31061, USA
| | - Dave S Bachoon
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Georgia College and State University, Campus Box 81, Milledgeville, GA 31061, USA
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Douchet L, Menkes C, Herbreteau V, Larrieu J, Bador M, Goarant C, Mangeas M. Climate-driven models of leptospirosis dynamics in tropical islands from three oceanic basins. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0011717. [PMID: 38662800 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leptospirosis is a neglected zoonosis which remains poorly known despite its epidemic potential, especially in tropical islands where outdoor lifestyle, vulnerability to invasive reservoir species and hot and rainy climate constitute higher risks for infections. Burden remains poorly documented while outbreaks can easily overflow health systems of these isolated and poorly populated areas. Identification of generic patterns driving leptospirosis dynamics across tropical islands would help understand its epidemiology for better preparedness of communities. In this study, we aim to model leptospirosis seasonality and outbreaks in tropical islands based on precipitation and temperature indicators. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We adjusted machine learning models on leptospirosis surveillance data from seven tropical islands (Guadeloupe, Reunion Island, Fiji, Futuna, New Caledonia, and Tahiti) to investigate 1) the effect of climate on the disease's seasonal dynamic, i.e., the centered seasonal profile and 2) inter-annual anomalies, i.e., the incidence deviations from the seasonal profile. The model was then used to estimate seasonal dynamics of leptospirosis in Vanuatu and Puerto Rico where disease incidence data were not available. A robust model, validated across different islands with leave-island-out cross-validation and based on current and 2-month lagged precipitation and current and 1-month lagged temperature, can be constructed to estimate the seasonal dynamic of leptospirosis. In opposition, climate determinants and their importance in estimating inter-annual anomalies highly differed across islands. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Climate appears as a strong determinant of leptospirosis seasonality in tropical islands regardless of the diversity of the considered environments and the different lifestyles across the islands. However, predictive and expandable abilities from climate indicators weaken when estimating inter-annual outbreaks and emphasize the importance of these local characteristics in the occurrence of outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Léa Douchet
- ENTROPIE, IRD, Univ Reunion, CNRS, IFREMER, Univ Nouvelle Calédonie, Nouméa, New Caledonia
- ESPACE-DEV, IRD, Univ Montpellier, Univ. Antilles, Univ Guyane, Univ Réunion, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Christophe Menkes
- ENTROPIE, IRD, Univ Reunion, CNRS, IFREMER, Univ Nouvelle Calédonie, Nouméa, New Caledonia
| | - Vincent Herbreteau
- ESPACE-DEV, IRD, Univ Montpellier, Univ. Antilles, Univ Guyane, Univ Réunion, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Institut Pasteur du Cambodge, Epidemiology and Public Health Unit, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Joséphine Larrieu
- ENTROPIE, IRD, Univ Reunion, CNRS, IFREMER, Univ Nouvelle Calédonie, Nouméa, New Caledonia
| | - Margot Bador
- CECI Université de Toulouse, CERFACS/CNRS, Toulouse, France
| | - Cyrille Goarant
- Institut Pasteur in New Caledonia, Leptospirosis Research and Expertise Unit, Nouméa, New Caledonia
- Public Health Division, The Pacific Community, Nouméa, New Caledonia
| | - Morgan Mangeas
- ENTROPIE, IRD, Univ Reunion, CNRS, IFREMER, Univ Nouvelle Calédonie, Nouméa, New Caledonia
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Win TZ, Perinpanathan T, Mukadi P, Smith C, Edwards T, Han SM, Maung HT, Brett-Major DM, Lee N. Antibiotic prophylaxis for leptospirosis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2024; 3:CD014959. [PMID: 38483067 PMCID: PMC10938880 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd014959.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leptospirosis is a global zoonotic and waterborne disease caused by pathogenic Leptospira species. Antibiotics are used as a strategy for prevention of leptospirosis, in particular in travellers and high-risk groups. However, the clinical benefits are unknown, especially when considering possible treatment-associated adverse effects. This review assesses the use of antibiotic prophylaxis in leptospirosis and is an update of a previously published review in the Cochrane Library (2009, Issue 3). OBJECTIVES To evaluate the benefits and harms of antibiotic prophylaxis for human leptospirosis. SEARCH METHODS We identified randomised clinical trials through electronic searches of the Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group Controlled Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, LILACS, Science Citation Index Expanded, and other resources. We searched online clinical trial registries to identify unpublished or ongoing trials. We checked reference lists of the retrieved studies for further trials. The last date of search was 17 April 2023. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised clinical trials of any trial design, assessing antibiotics for prevention of leptospirosis, and with no restrictions on age, sex, occupation, or comorbidity of trial participants. We looked for trials assessing antibiotics irrespective of route of administration, dosage, and schedule versus placebo or no intervention. We also included trials assessing antibiotics versus other antibiotics using these criteria, or the same antibiotic but with another dose or schedule. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We followed Cochrane methodology. The primary outcomes were all-cause mortality, laboratory-confirmed leptospirosis regardless of the presence of an identified clinical syndrome (inclusive of asymptomatic cases), clinical diagnosis of leptospirosis regardless of the presence of laboratory confirmation, clinical diagnosis of leptospirosis confirmed by laboratory diagnosis (exclusive of asymptomatic cases), and serious adverse events. The secondary outcomes were quality of life and the proportion of people with non-serious adverse events. We assessed the risk of bias of the included trials using the RoB 2 tool and the certainty of evidence using GRADE. We presented dichotomous outcomes as risk ratios (RR) and continuous outcomes as mean difference (MD), with their 95% confidence intervals (CI). We used a random-effects model for our main analyses and the fixed-effect model for sensitivity analyses. Our primary outcome analyses included trial data at the longest follow-up. MAIN RESULTS We identified five randomised clinical trials comprising 2593 participants that compared antibiotics (doxycycline, azithromycin, or penicillin) with placebo, or one antibiotic compared with another. Four trials assessed doxycycline with different durations, one trial assessed azithromycin, and one trial assessed penicillin. One trial had three intervention groups: doxycycline, azithromycin, and placebo. Three trials assessed pre-exposure prophylaxis, one trial assessed postexposure prophylaxis, and one did not report this clearly. Four trials recruited residents in endemic areas, and one trial recruited soldiers who experienced limited time exposure. The participants' ages in the included trials were 10 to 80 years. Follow-up ranged from one to three months. Antibiotics versus placebo Doxycycline compared with placebo may result in little to no difference in all-cause mortality (RR 0.15, 95% CI 0.01 to 2.83; 1 trial, 782 participants; low-certainty evidence). Prophylactic antibiotics may have little to no effect on laboratory-confirmed leptospirosis, but the evidence is very uncertain (RR 0.56, 95% CI 0.25 to 1.26; 5 trials, 2593 participants; very low-certainty evidence). Antibiotics may result in little to no difference in the clinical diagnosis of leptospirosis regardless of laboratory confirmation (RR 0.76, 95% CI 0.53 to 1.08; 4 trials, 1653 participants; low-certainty evidence) and the clinical diagnosis of leptospirosis with laboratory confirmation (RR 0.57, 95% CI 0.26 to 1.26; 4 trials, 1653 participants; low-certainty evidence). Antibiotics compared with placebo may increase non-serious adverse events, but the evidence is very uncertain (RR 10.13, 95% CI 2.40 to 42.71; 3 trials, 1909 participants; very low-certainty evidence). One antibiotic versus another antibiotic One trial assessed doxycycline versus azithromycin but did not report mortality. Compared to azithromycin, doxycycline may have little to no effect on laboratory-confirmed leptospirosis regardless of the presence of an identified clinical syndrome (RR 1.49, 95% CI 0.51 to 4.32; 1 trial, 137 participants), on the clinical diagnosis of leptospirosis regardless of the presence of laboratory confirmation (RR 4.18, 95% CI 0.94 to 18.66; 1 trial, 137 participants), on the clinical diagnosis of leptospirosis confirmed by laboratory diagnosis (RR 4.18, 95% CI 0.94 to 18.66; 1 trial, 137 participants), and on non-serious adverse events (RR 1.12, 95% CI 0.36 to 3.48; 1 trial, 137 participants), but the evidence is very uncertain. The certainty of evidence for all the outcomes was very low. None of the five included trials reported serious adverse events or assessed quality of life. One study is awaiting classification. Funding Four of the five trials included statements disclosing their funding/supporting sources, and the remaining trial did not include this. Three of the four trials that disclosed their supporting sources received the supply of trial drugs directly from the same pharmaceutical company, and the remaining trial received financial support from a governmental source. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We do not know if antibiotics versus placebo or another antibiotic has little or have no effect on all-cause mortality or leptospirosis infection because the certainty of evidence is low or very low. We do not know if antibiotics versus placebo may increase the overall risk of non-serious adverse events because of very low-certainty evidence. We lack definitive rigorous data from randomised trials to support the use of antibiotics for the prophylaxis of leptospirosis infection. We lack trials reporting data on clinically relevant outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tin Zar Win
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Tanaraj Perinpanathan
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Patrick Mukadi
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Program for Nurturing Global Leaders in Tropical and Emerging Communicable Diseases, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Institut National de Recherche Biomedicale (INRB), Kinshasa, DRC
| | - Chris Smith
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Tansy Edwards
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Su Myat Han
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Hsu Thinzar Maung
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - David M Brett-Major
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Biometrics, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nathaniel Lee
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Comia IR, Manuel L, Miambo RD, Carimo AA, Manjate PDF, Maholela AE, Banze LR, Buene TP, Nhancupe N, Sousa IM, Benson CA, Schooley RT, Sacarlal J, Noormahomed EV. A Cross Sectional Study on the Bidirectional Interactions Between Leptospirosis and HIV Infection Among Patients from Maputo Central Hospital, Mozambique. Res Rep Trop Med 2024; 15:1-11. [PMID: 38371361 PMCID: PMC10871144 DOI: 10.2147/rrtm.s445878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction This study aims to determine the baseline seroprevalence of leptospirosis, a zoonotic and neglected disease, in people living with HIV (PWH) in Maputo, Mozambique, and to evaluate the relationship between selected HIV-related factors that might influence risk of coinfection with leptospirosis, such as degree of immunosuppression, as assessed by CD4 cell count, World Health Organization (WHO) HIV/AIDS clinical stage and antiretroviral therapy (ART) intake. Methods This was a descriptive cross-sectional analysis of 157 PWH, aged over 18 years old, admitted to the Maputo Central Hospital, in Maputo, Mozambique, between March 2020 and October 2021. The study participants were recruited as a convenience sample regardless of the reasons for their admission. We collected sociodemographic and clinical data, including ART and WHO HIV/AIDS clinical stage, and blood for CD4 cell count and detection of Leptospira IgG antibodies using a commercial Kit ab247199 Leptospira IgG ELISA (www.abcam.com/ab247199) with sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 97.3%, respectively. Laboratory testing was performed at the Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University and Laboratory of Clinical Analysis, in Maputo. Results Participants were aged 18 to 72 years (median age 39 years; SD ± 10.5), the majority were female 100 (63.7%), from urban areas 138 (87.9%), with secondary-level education 80 (51%). The overall seroprevalence of Leptospira IgG antibodies was 40.1%. The median CD4 cell count was 385 cells/µl (02 to 2297; SD ± 378.47). Higher seroprevalence of Leptospira antibodies was found among participants with CD4 cell counts <250 cells/µl (54.8%), WHO HIV/AIDS stage IV (70.2%) and those on ART (92%), though there were no statistically significant differences between groups with and without Leptospira antibodies. Conclusion Our study confirmed that Leptospira antibodies are highly prevalent in PWH in Maputo; however, Leptospira infection was not associated with the degree of immunosuppression, WHO HIV/AIDS clinical stage, or the use of ART. Our data support the need for routine screening for leptospirosis in PWH in Mozambique. Future studies are warranted to characterize the incidence and outcomes of symptomatic leptospirosis in this patient population and to identify circulating serovars and species in the country and region, as well as the implicated reservoirs.
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Grants
- research work and student fellowship
- the National Institutes of Health
- Fogarty International Center
- titled Enhanced Advanced Biomedical Training in Mozambique
- Additionally, RTS and EVN received support from the above-mentioned grant to support their efforts as PI and co-PI, respectively. RDM, IMS, LB, and TB received support from the above grant as mentors. NN, AC, PFM, AM, CAB, RTS, JS, and EVN received support from the grant number R25TW011216 also from NIH-FIC and PEPFAR. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the funders
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Affiliation(s)
- Isac Rodrigues Comia
- Department of Research and Extension, Faculty of Health Sciences, Lúrio University, Nampula, Mozambique
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Leonardo Manuel
- Department of Research and Extension, Faculty of Health Sciences, Lúrio University, Nampula, Mozambique
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Regina Daniel Miambo
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, Mozambique
- Department of Para-Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Awa Abdul Carimo
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, Mozambique
- Department of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Percílio da Floca Manjate
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, Mozambique
- Department of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Ana Edith Maholela
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, Mozambique
- Department of Medicine, Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Lucas Raimundo Banze
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Titos Paulo Buene
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Noémia Nhancupe
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Irina M Sousa
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, Mozambique
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Constance A Benson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Robert T Schooley
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Jahit Sacarlal
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Emília Virgínia Noormahomed
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, Mozambique
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
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Rodríguez-Rodríguez V, Castro-Cordero A, Calderón-Rangel A, Martínez-Ibarra E, Yasnot M, Agudelo-Flórez P, Monroy FP. Acute human leptospirosis in a Caribbean region of Colombia: From classic to emerging risk factors. Zoonoses Public Health 2024; 71:107-119. [PMID: 37924220 DOI: 10.1111/zph.13089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leptospirosis is a zoonosis of worldwide incidence, with a broad spectrum of health risk factors. AIM The objective was to determine risk factors associated with acute human leptospirosis and to explore predictive variables of risk to human leptospirosis. METHODS The study was carried out in the Department of Córdoba, in the north of Colombia. We conducted a longitudinal prospective descriptive study with non-probabilistic sampling, which included 339 patients suspected of leptospirosis. Positive cases were confirmed by MAT and PCR. The determination of social and environmental risk factors was done with a survey on epidemiological and environmental variables to establish an association between cases of leptospirosis and risk factors as well as predictive variables. RESULTS We found 19.8% (67/339) cases of acute leptospirosis, and the seroprevalence was 27.1% (92/339). The most frequent serogroups were Sejroe, Australis, Pomona, Batavie, Pyrogenes and Grippotyphosa. We identified the following risk factors: age between 10 and 19 years (OR = 2.571; 95% CI); pig ownership (OR = 2.019; 95% CI); bathing or recreational activities in lake/lagoon (OR = 3.85; 95% CI) and in dams (OR = 3.0; 95% CI); floodings 30 days before the onset of symptoms (OR = 2.019; 95% CI), and a mean temperature of 28°C (p 0.044; 95%CI). As significant predictor variables, we identified age (10-19 years), bathing or recreational activities in the lake/lagoon, and flooding 30 days before symptoms were again evidenced. This region presents classic risk factors (pig ownership) and emerging environmental risk factors (recreational practice or bathing in a lake/lagoon and flooding 30 days before the onset of symptoms), and demographic factors such as young age (10-19 years). CONCLUSIONS These factors are also predictors of human cases of acute leptospirosis and provide contextual information on environmental and public health that should be considered for epidemiological surveillance in this endemic area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Rodríguez-Rodríguez
- Grupo de Investigaciones Microbiológicas y Biomédicas de Córdoba (GIMBIC), Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Colombia
| | - Ana Castro-Cordero
- Grupo de Investigaciones Microbiológicas y Biomédicas de Córdoba (GIMBIC), Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Colombia
| | - Alfonso Calderón-Rangel
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas del Trópico (IIBT), Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Colombia
| | | | - Maria Yasnot
- Grupo de Investigaciones Microbiológicas y Biomédicas de Córdoba (GIMBIC), Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Colombia
| | - Piedad Agudelo-Flórez
- Ciencias de la Vida y la Salud, Escuela de Graduados, Universidad CES, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Fernando P Monroy
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona, USA
- Pathogen and Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona, USA
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Philip N, Ahmed K. Leptospirosis in Malaysia: current status, insights, and future prospects. J Physiol Anthropol 2023; 42:30. [PMID: 38087323 PMCID: PMC10714552 DOI: 10.1186/s40101-023-00347-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Among zoonotic infections, leptospirosis has a worldwide distribution and high prevalence in tropical regions. It has a broad clinical presentation from mild to severe, life-threatening infection. Leptospires, the etiological agent of leptospirosis, are found in varied ecological niches and animal species, providing a significant source of human infection. This review aims to provide the current status of leptospirosis in Malaysia and the direction for future studies. The literature search for this review was performed using PubMed, Web of Sciences, and Google Scholar databases. The incidence of leptospirosis in Malaysia from 2004 to 2020 varied; however, a large number of cases occurred during floods. Leptospira has been isolated from wild and domestic animals as well as from the environment; among them, several novel species have been identified. In Malaysia, leptospirosis infection and death were mostly associated with recreational and non-recreational water activities. Despite the endemicity of leptospirosis, the public's knowledge, attitude, and practice level are relatively low in this country. More studies are needed in Malaysia to explore the extent of leptospirosis in different settings and locations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noraini Philip
- School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Kamruddin Ahmed
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.
- Borneo Medical and Health Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.
- Research Center for Global and Local Infectious Diseases, Oita University, Oita, Japan.
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Rashid H, Omoloye AK, Abualnaja SY, Oyibo SO, Akintade OO. A Fish Farmer's Encounter With Leptospirosis: A Case Report. Cureus 2023; 15:e48138. [PMID: 37929271 PMCID: PMC10620544 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.48138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic infection primarily caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospira. This infectious disease mainly occurs through direct contact with infected animals or indirect contact via contaminated soil or water. While the incidence rate of leptospirosis in the developing world is as high as 100 cases per 100,000 population, the incidence rate in the United Kingdom is low (0.14 cases per 100,000 population). We present a 56-year-old male fish farmer who presented to the emergency department with a history of intense thigh pain and sudden inability to mobilise following a week-long period of a flu-like illness, characterised by worsening myalgia localised to the inner thighs, fever, and episodes of passing dark red urine. Initial investigations demonstrated acute renal impairment, hepatitis, thrombocytopenia, mild rhabdomyolysis and raised inflammatory markers. With a suspected diagnosis of leptospirosis after a detailed clinical history and preliminary blood tests, treatment was immediately commenced with intravenous antibiotics, intravenous rehydration and vigilant monitoring of urinary output. The patient's condition rapidly improved and the diagnosis was later confirmed by a positive Leptospira polymerase chain reaction (PCR) report and serology. We believe prompt treatment prevented deterioration in this case. The aim of this case report is to highlight the importance of a detailed clinical history, with a particular focus on occupational exposure, especially in the developed world. Additionally, a low clinical threshold for leptospirosis is imperative, as rapid clinical deterioration can happen if no immediate medical intervention is performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamza Rashid
- Medicine, Peterborough City Hospital, Peterborough, GBR
| | | | | | - Samson O Oyibo
- Diabetes and Endocrinology, Peterborough City Hospital, Peterborough, GBR
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9
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Gizamba JM, Mugisha L. Leptospirosis in humans and selected animals in Sub-Saharan Africa, 2014-2022: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:649. [PMID: 37784071 PMCID: PMC10546638 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08574-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leptospirosis is an emerging neglected tropical zoonotic disease of public health importance causing substantial morbidities and mortalities among humans. The infection is maintained within the population through interactions between humans, animals, and the environment. Understanding the burden of disease in both humans and animals is necessary for effective prevention and control in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Therefore, we aimed to determine the seroprevalence of leptospirosis in humans, selected domestic animals, and rodents in SSA. METHODS A comprehensive search was done in six databases: Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, CINAHL, Web of Science, and African Journals Online databases for articles published between 01 January 2014 and 30 August 2022. Thirty-seven articles distributed across 14 out of 46 countries in SSA were included. The random effects meta-analysis model was used to pool the extracted seroprevalence data. RESULTS The overall pooled seroprevalence of leptospirosis among humans was 12.7% (95% CI: 7.5,20.8), 15.1% (95% CI: 9.4,23.5), and 4.5% (95% CI: 0.4, 35.6) based on results obtained using ELISA, MAT, and PCR diagnostic methods respectively. The pooled seroprevalence estimates among cattle were 29.2%, 30.1%, and 9.7% based on ELISA, MAT, and PCR respectively. Further, the pooled seroprevalence in goats was 30.0% for studies that used MAT, and among rodents, the pooled seroprevalence estimates were 21.0% for MAT and 9.6% for PCR diagnostic criteria. The seroprevalence of leptospirosis varied extensively between studies, across SSA regions and study setting (rural or urban). CONCLUSION Leptospirosis is widespread in SSA in both humans and animals based on the current results of the pooled seroprevalence in the limited studies available. The burden is high in animals and humans and underestimated due to limited studies and challenges with limited diagnostic capacity in most healthcare settings in SSA. Hence, we recommend that leptospirosis should be listed as a disease of concern and be included on the list of routine diagnostics among patients presenting with febrile illness in healthcare settings. Further, we recommend the enhancement of surveillance of leptospirosis in all countries in SSA and the development of strategies with a One Health perspective to effectively prevent and control leptospirosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Mugoya Gizamba
- Department of Wildlife and Aquatic Animal Resources, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources & Biosecurity, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
- Spatial Science Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA.
| | - Lawrence Mugisha
- Department of Wildlife and Aquatic Animal Resources, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources & Biosecurity, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
- Ecohealth Research Group, Conservation &Ecosystem Health Alliance, Kampala, Uganda.
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10
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Garcia-Lopez M, Lorioux C, Soares A, Trombert-Paolantoni S, Harran E, Ayral F, Picardeau M, Djelouadji Z, Bourhy P. Genetic diversity of Leptospira strains circulating in humans and dogs in France in 2019-2021. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1236866. [PMID: 37662012 PMCID: PMC10469827 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1236866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a bacterial zoonotic disease. Humans and dogs are susceptible hosts, with similar clinical manifestations ranging from a febrile phase to multiple organ dysfunction. The incidence of leptospirosis in mainland France is relatively high, at about 1 case per 100,000 inhabitants, but our knowledge of the strains circulating in humans and dogs remains limited. We studied the polymorphism of the lfb1 gene sequences in an exhaustive database, to facilitate the identification of Leptospira strains. We identified 46 species-groups (SG) encompassing the eight pathogenic species of Leptospira. We sequenced the lfb1 gene amplification products from 170 biological samples collected from 2019 to 2021: 110 from humans and 60 from dogs. Epidemiological data, including vaccination status in dogs, were also collected. Three Leptospira species displaying considerable diversity were identified: L. interrogans, with eight lfb1 species-groups (including five new lfb1 species-groups) in humans and dogs; L. kirschneri, with two lfb1 species-groups in humans and dogs; and L. borgpetersenii, with one lfb1 species-group in humans only. The lfb1 species-group L. interrogans SG1, corresponding to serovar Icterohaemorrhagiae or Copenhageni, was frequently retrieved from both humans and dogs (n=67/110; 60.9% and n=59/60; 98.3% respectively). A high proportion of the affected dogs developed the disease despite vaccination (n=30/60; 50%). Genotyping with the polymorphic lfb1 gene is both robust and simple. This approach provided the first global picture of the Leptospira strains responsible for acute infections in mainland France, based on biological samples but without the need for culture. Identification of the Leptospira strains circulating and their changes over time will facilitate more precise epidemiological monitoring of susceptible and reservoir species. It should also facilitate the monitoring of environmental contamination, making it possible to implement preventive measures and to reduce the burden of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Garcia-Lopez
- Biology of Spirochetes Unit, National Reference Center for Leptospirosis, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
- USC 1223-RS2GP, Laboratory of Leptospira and Veterinary Analysis, VetAgro Sup, University of Lyon, Marcy l’Etoile, France
| | - Celine Lorioux
- Biology of Spirochetes Unit, National Reference Center for Leptospirosis, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Anais Soares
- Department of Infectiology, Eurofins Biomnis, Lyon, France
| | | | - Elena Harran
- USC 1223-RS2GP, Laboratory of Leptospira and Veterinary Analysis, VetAgro Sup, University of Lyon, Marcy l’Etoile, France
| | - Florence Ayral
- USC 1223-RS2GP, Laboratory of Leptospira and Veterinary Analysis, VetAgro Sup, University of Lyon, Marcy l’Etoile, France
| | - Mathieu Picardeau
- Biology of Spirochetes Unit, National Reference Center for Leptospirosis, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Zouheira Djelouadji
- USC 1223-RS2GP, Laboratory of Leptospira and Veterinary Analysis, VetAgro Sup, University of Lyon, Marcy l’Etoile, France
| | - Pascale Bourhy
- Biology of Spirochetes Unit, National Reference Center for Leptospirosis, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
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11
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Galan DI, Schneider MC, Roess AA. Leptospirosis Risk among Occupational Groups in Brazil, 2010-2015. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2023; 109:376-386. [PMID: 37400068 PMCID: PMC10397431 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.21-0181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease that is primarily transmitted through close contact with contaminated environments or infected animals. Brazil has the highest number of reported cases of leptospirosis in the Americas (approximately 4,000 annual cases). The purpose of this study is to identify the occupational groups with a higher risk of leptospirosis in Brazil from 2010 through 2015 among suspected cases reported to the national surveillance system. Confirmed and unconfirmed cases of leptospirosis with laboratory diagnosis, 20,193 and 59,034 respectively, were classified into 12 occupational groups. Confirmed cases were predominantly male (79.4%), between 25 and 59 years of age (68.3%), white (53.4%), illiterate or with incomplete primary education (51.1%), and participating in agricultural work (19.9%). After controlling for age, sex, race, and area of residency, the multivariate analysis identified that between confirmed and unconfirmed cases of leptospirosis reported to the Brazilian national surveillance system, five occupational groups are at higher risk for leptospirosis: garbage and recycling collectors (odds ratio [OR] = 4.10; 95% CI = 3.36-4.99); agricultural, forestry, and fishery workers (OR = 1.65; 95% CI = 1.49-1.84); prisoners (OR = 1.56; 95% CI = 1.04-2.35); building workers (OR = 1.36; 95% CI = 1.22-1.51); cleaners and mining workers (OR = 1.25; 95% CI = 1.07-1.45). This is the first nationwide study to examine leptospirosis risk by occupational group in Brazil using national surveillance data. Our results suggest that among suspected cases there was an increased risk among occupational groups with low income and low educational levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deise I. Galan
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Maria Cristina Schneider
- Department of International Health, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
- Institute of Studies in Collective Health, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Amira A. Roess
- Department of Global and Community Health, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia
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12
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Navas-Yuste S, de la Paz K, Querol-García J, Gómez-Quevedo S, Rodríguez de Córdoba S, Fernández FJ, Vega MC. The structure of Leptospira interrogans GAPDH sheds light into an immunoevasion factor that can target the anaphylatoxin C5a of innate immunity. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1190943. [PMID: 37409124 PMCID: PMC10318897 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1190943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a neglected worldwide zoonosis involving farm animals and domestic pets caused by the Gram-negative spirochete Leptospira interrogans. This bacterium deploys a variety of immune evasive mechanisms, some of them targeted at the complement system of the host's innate immunity. In this work, we have solved the X-ray crystallographic structure of L. interrogans glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) to 2.37-Å resolution, a glycolytic enzyme that has been shown to exhibit moonlighting functions that potentiate infectivity and immune evasion in various pathogenic organisms. Besides, we have characterized the enzyme's kinetic parameters toward the cognate substrates and have proven that the two natural products anacardic acid and curcumin are able to inhibit L. interrogans GAPDH at micromolar concentration through a noncompetitive inhibition modality. Furthermore, we have established that L. interrogans GAPDH can interact with the anaphylatoxin C5a of human innate immunity in vitro using bio-layer interferometry and a short-range cross-linking reagent that tethers free thiol groups in protein complexes. To shed light into the interaction between L. interrogans GAPDH and C5a, we have also carried out cross-link guided protein-protein docking. These results suggest that L. interrogans could be placed in the growing list of bacterial pathogens that exploit glycolytic enzymes as extracellular immune evasive factors. Analysis of the docking results indicates a low affinity interaction that is consistent with previous evidence, including known binding modes of other α-helical proteins with GAPDH. These findings allow us to propose L. interrogans GAPDH as a potential immune evasive factor targeting the complement system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Navas-Yuste
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Karla de la Paz
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
- Abvance Biotech Srl, Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Querol-García
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
- Abvance Biotech Srl, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Gómez-Quevedo
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
- Universidad Europea, Madrid, Spain
| | - Santiago Rodríguez de Córdoba
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomedica en Red sobre Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco J. Fernández
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
- Abvance Biotech Srl, Madrid, Spain
| | - M. Cristina Vega
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
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13
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Zeng Z, Chen H, Xu J, Zhang H, Xu C, Fan L, Chen S, Chen K, Yang Z, Wei Y. Characteristics of leptospirosis cases, prevention and control managements 1955-2020, Guangzhou, China. One Health 2023; 16:100541. [PMID: 37363250 PMCID: PMC10288099 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2023.100541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Leptospirosis, which is an easily overlooked zoonotic disease, was once widespread in Guangzhou, China. However, due to the implementation of control measures, the number of cases is decreasing. Based on the characteristics of leptospirosis cases in Guangzhou, China, between 1955 and 2020, we describe the changes and achievements in prevention and control management strategies over that period. Methods The development of the leptospirosis control system in Guangzhou occurred over three periods: Period I: 1955-1978; Period II: 1979-2000; and Period III: 2001-2020. Data about leptospirosis cases were obtained from the Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and national health departments. The demographic characteristics of leptospirosis patients were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results During Period I, only the Guangzhou CDC and medical institutions at every level participated in the leptospirosis control system. During Period II, additional types of organizations, including local CDCs, countryside committees, community committees, and the Patriotic Health Movement Commission, were involved in the control system. Additionally, strong links were established between different organizations. After entering Period III, an increasing number of departments joined the cooperation, and the management of human patients was expanded to include the management of host animals, and thus, the prevalence of leptospirosis was monitored and controlled in various ways. The leptospirosis control system in Guangzhou has been further improved. From 1955 to 2020, a total of 2501 leptospirosis cases were recorded in Guangzhou, and the number of cases decreased significantly over time, from 1608 (Period I) to 744 (Period II) and then to 149 (Period III). Conclusion The improvements of the leptospirosis control system in Guangzhou that occurred over decades were associated with a marked decrease in the number of leptospirosis cases. Guangzhou's experience can provide guidance for other countries or cities around the world facing similar challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyi Zeng
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haiyan Chen
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianmin Xu
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Conghui Xu
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lirui Fan
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shouyi Chen
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kuncai Chen
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhicong Yang
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuehong Wei
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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14
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de Oliveira D, Khalil H, Palma FAG, Santana R, Nery N, Quintero-Vélez JC, Zeppelini CG, do Sacramento GA, Cruz J, Lustosa R, Ferreira IS, Carvalho-Pereira T, Diggle PJ, Wunder EA, Ko AI, Lopez YA, Begon M, Reis MG, Costa F. Factors associated with differential seropositivity to Leptospira interrogans and Leptospira kirschneri in a high transmission urban setting for leptospirosis in Brazil. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.04.10.23288388. [PMID: 37090569 PMCID: PMC10120806 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.10.23288388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Background Leptospirosis is a zoonosis caused by pathogenic species of bacteria belonging to the genus Leptospira. Most studies infer the epidemiological patterns of a single serogroup or aggregate all serogroups to estimate overall seropositivity, thus not exploring the risks of exposure to distinct serogroups. The present study aims to delineate the demographic, socioeconomic and environmental factors associated with seropositivity of Leptospira serogroup Icterohaemorraghiae and serogroup Cynopteri in an urban high transmission setting for leptospirosis in Brazil. Methods/Principal Findings We performed a cross-sectional serological study in five urban informal communities in the city of Salvador, Brazil. During the years 2018, 2020 2021, we recruited 2.808 residents and collected blood samples for serological analysis using microagglutination assays. We used a mixed-effect multinomial logistic regression model to identify risk factors associated with seropositivity for each serogroup. Seropositivity to Cynopteri increased with age in years (OR 1.03; 95% CI 1.01-1.06) and was higher in those living in houses with unplaster walls (exposed brick) (OR 1.68; 95% CI 1.09-2.59) and where cats were present near the household (OR 2.00; 95% CI 1.03-3.88). Seropositivity to Icterohaemorrhagiae also increased with age in years (OR 1.02; 95% CI 1.01-1.03) but was higher in males (OR 1.51; 95% CI 1.09-2.10), in those with work-related exposures (OR 1.71; 95% CI 1.10-2.66) or who had contact with sewage (OR 1.42; 95% CI 1.00-2.03). Spatial analysis showed differences in distribution of seropositivity to serogroups Icterohaemorrhagiae and Cynopteri within the five districts where study communities were situated. Conclusions/Significance Our data suggests distinct epidemiological patterns associated with serogroups Icterohaemorrhagiae and Cynopteri within the high-risk urban environment for leptospirosis and with differences of spatial niches. Future studies must identify the different pathogenic serogroups circulating in low-income areas, and further evaluate the potential role of cats in the transmission of the serogroup Cynopteri in urban settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiana de Oliveira
- Instituto da Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Rua Basílio da Gama, 316, Canela, CEP 40110-040, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
- Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Ministério da Saúde, Rua Waldemar Falcão, 121, Candeal, CEP 40296-710, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
| | - Hussein Khalil
- Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Fabiana Almerinda G. Palma
- Instituto da Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Rua Basílio da Gama, 316, Canela, CEP 40110-040, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
| | - Roberta Santana
- Instituto da Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Rua Basílio da Gama, 316, Canela, CEP 40110-040, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
| | - Nivison Nery
- Instituto da Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Rua Basílio da Gama, 316, Canela, CEP 40110-040, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
- Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Ministério da Saúde, Rua Waldemar Falcão, 121, Candeal, CEP 40296-710, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
| | - Juan C. Quintero-Vélez
- Grupo de Ciencias Veterinarias - Centauro, Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
- Grupo de Investigación Microbiología Básica y Aplicada, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
- Grupo de Epidemiología, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Caio Graco Zeppelini
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia: Teoria, Aplicações e Valores, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Brazil
| | - Gielson Almeida do Sacramento
- Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Ministério da Saúde, Rua Waldemar Falcão, 121, Candeal, CEP 40296-710, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
| | - Jaqueline Cruz
- Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Ministério da Saúde, Rua Waldemar Falcão, 121, Candeal, CEP 40296-710, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
| | - Ricardo Lustosa
- Instituto da Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Rua Basílio da Gama, 316, Canela, CEP 40110-040, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
| | - Igor Santana Ferreira
- Instituto da Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Rua Basílio da Gama, 316, Canela, CEP 40110-040, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
| | - Ticiana Carvalho-Pereira
- Instituto da Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Rua Basílio da Gama, 316, Canela, CEP 40110-040, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
| | - Peter J Diggle
- Centre for Health Informatics, Computing, and Statistics, Lancaster University, UK
| | - Elsio A. Wunder
- Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Ministério da Saúde, Rua Waldemar Falcão, 121, Candeal, CEP 40296-710, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, 60 College St, New Haven, Connecticut, 06510, USA
| | - Albert I. Ko
- Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Ministério da Saúde, Rua Waldemar Falcão, 121, Candeal, CEP 40296-710, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, 60 College St, New Haven, Connecticut, 06510, USA
| | - Yeimi Alzate Lopez
- Instituto da Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Rua Basílio da Gama, 316, Canela, CEP 40110-040, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
| | - Mike Begon
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Mitermayer G. Reis
- Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Ministério da Saúde, Rua Waldemar Falcão, 121, Candeal, CEP 40296-710, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, 60 College St, New Haven, Connecticut, 06510, USA
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Praça XV de novembro, s/n - Largo do Terreiro de Jesus, CEP 40026-010, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
| | - Federico Costa
- Instituto da Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Rua Basílio da Gama, 316, Canela, CEP 40110-040, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
- Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Ministério da Saúde, Rua Waldemar Falcão, 121, Candeal, CEP 40296-710, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, 60 College St, New Haven, Connecticut, 06510, USA
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Chaurasia R, Vinetz JM. In silico prediction of molecular mechanisms of toxicity mediated by the leptospiral PF07598 gene family-encoded virulence-modifying proteins. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 9:1092197. [PMID: 36756251 PMCID: PMC9900628 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.1092197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanisms of leptospirosis pathogenesis remain unclear despite the identification of a number of potential leptospiral virulence factors. We recently demonstrated potential mechanisms by which the virulence-modifying (VM) proteins-defined as containing a Domain of Unknown function (DUF1561), encoded by the PF07598 gene family-found only in group 1 pathogenic Leptospira-might mediate the clinical pathogenesis of leptospirosis. VM proteins belongs to classical AB toxin paradigm though have a unique AB domain architecture, unlike other AB toxins such as diphtheria toxin, pertussis toxin, shiga toxin, or ricin toxin which are typically encoded by two or more genes and self-assembled into a multi-domain holotoxin. Leptospiral VM proteins are secreted R-type lectin domain-containing exotoxins with discrete N-terminal ricin B-like domains involved in host cell surface binding, and a C-terminal DNase/toxin domain. Here we use the artificial intelligence-based AlphaFold algorithm and other computational tools to predict and elaborate on details of the VM protein structure-function relationship. Comparative AlphaFold and CD-spectroscopy defined the consistent secondary structure (Helix and ß-sheet) content, and the stability of the functional domains were further supported by molecular dynamics simulation. VM proteins comprises distinctive lectic family (QxW)3 motifs, the Mycoplasma CARDS toxin (D3 domain, aromatic patches), C-terminal similarity with mammalian DNase I. In-silico study proposed that Gln412, Gln523, His533, Thr59 are the high binding energy or ligand binding residues plausibly anticipates in the functional activities. Divalent cation (Mg+2-Gln412) and phosphate ion (PO4]-3-Arg615) interaction further supports the functional activities driven by C-terminal domain. Computation-driven structure-function studies of VM proteins will guide experimentation towards mechanistic understandings of leptospirosis pathogenesis, which underlie development of new therapeutic and preventive measures for this devastating disease.
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16
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Ibrahim JM, A S, Nair AS, Oommen OV, Sudhakaran PR. In silico screening and epitope mapping of leptospiral outer membrane protein-Lsa46. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:26-44. [PMID: 34821205 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2021.2003247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Leptospirosis is one of the neglected diseases caused by the spirochete, Leptospira interrogans. Leptospiral surface adhesion (Lsa) proteins are surface exposed outer membrane proteins present in the pathogen. It acts as laminin and plasminogen binding proteins which enable them to infect host cells. The major target for the development of vaccine in the current era focuses on surface exposed outer membrane proteins, as they can induce strong and fast immune response in hosts. Therefore, the present study mapped the potential epitopes of the Leptospiral outer membrane proteins, mainly the surface adhesion proteins. Protein sequence analysis of Lsa proteins was done by in silico methods. The primary protein sequence analysis revealed Lsa46 as a suitable target which can be a potent Leptospiral vaccine candidate. Its structure was modelled by threading based method in I-TASSER server and validated by Ramachandran plot. The predicted epitope's interactions with human IgG, IgM(Fab) and T-cell receptor TCR(αβ) were performed by molecular docking studies using Biovia Discovery studio 2018. One of the predicted B-cell epitopes and the IgG showed desirable binding interactions, while four of the predicted B-cell epitopes and T-cell epitopes showed desirable binding interactions with IgM and TCR respectively. The molecular dynamic simulation studies carried out with the molecular docked complexes gave minimized energies indicating stable interactions. The structural analysis of the entire simulated complex showed a stable nature except for one of the Epitope-IgM complex. Further the binding free energy calculation of eight receptor-ligand complex predicted them energetically stable. The results of the study help in elucidating the structural and functional characterization of Lsa46 for epitope-based vaccine design.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junaida M Ibrahim
- Department of Computational Biology & Bioinformatics, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Shanitha A
- Department of Computational Biology & Bioinformatics, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Achuthsankar S Nair
- Department of Computational Biology & Bioinformatics, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Oommen V Oommen
- Department of Computational Biology & Bioinformatics, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Perumana R Sudhakaran
- Department of Computational Biology & Bioinformatics, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
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17
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de Oliveira NR, Kremer FS, de Brito RSA, Zamboni R, Dellagostin OA, Jorge S. Pathogenesis and Genomic Analysis of a Virulent Leptospira Interrogans Serovar Copenhageni Isolated from a Dog with Lethal Infection. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:tropicalmed7110333. [PMID: 36355875 PMCID: PMC9698576 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7110333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Dogs are highly susceptible to leptospirosis and are a public health concern due to their important role as a source of spreading disease, particularly in urban settings. In this study, we present the pathogenesis, serological characterization, and complete genome sequencing of a virulent Brazilian strain (NEG7) of L. interrogans serovar Copenhageni isolated from the urine of a dog that died due to acute leptospirosis. Clinical investigation showed that the dog was presented with icteric mucous membranes, weakness, dehydration, anorexia, and kidney and liver failures. Necropsy followed by histopathological evaluation revealed lesions compatible with liver and kidney leptospirosis. The leptospires recovered from the urine were further characterized by genome analysis, which confirmed that the isolate belonged to L. interrogans serogroup icterohaemorrhagiae serovar Copenhageni. Multiple bioinformatics tools were used to characterize the genomic features, and comparisons with other available Copenhageni strains were performed. Characterization based on absence of an INDEL in the gene lic12008, associated with phylogenetic and ANI (99.99% identity) analyses, confirmed the genetic relatedness of the isolate with L. interrogans serovar Copenhageni. A better understanding of the diversity of the pathogenic Leptospira isolates could help in identifying genotypes responsible for severe infections. Moreover, it can be used to develop control and prevention strategies for Leptospira serovars associated with particular animal reservoirs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Rodrigues de Oliveira
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Núcleo de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas 96160-000, RS, Brazil
| | - Frederico Schmitt Kremer
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Núcleo de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas 96160-000, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Rosimeri Zamboni
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas 96160-000, RS, Brazil
| | - Odir Antônio Dellagostin
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Núcleo de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas 96160-000, RS, Brazil
- Correspondence:
| | - Sérgio Jorge
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas 96160-000, RS, Brazil
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18
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Jampasa S, Kreangkaiwal C, Kalcher K, Waiwinya W, Techawiwattanaboon T, Songumpai N, Sueyanyongsiri P, Pattanasombatsakul K, Techapornroong M, Benjamanukul S, Chailapakul O, Patarakul K, Chaiyo S. Resistance-Based Lateral Flow Immunosensor with a NFC-Enabled Smartphone for Rapid Diagnosis of Leptospirosis in Clinical Samples. Anal Chem 2022; 94:14583-14592. [PMID: 36219138 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c02409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Leptospirosis is one of the most life-threatening tropical diseases caused by pathogenic Leptospira. To date, a diagnostic device that offers rapid and sensitive detection of leptospires has been still in demand for proper treatment to reduce the mortality rate. Herein, we create a resistance-based lateral flow immunosensor diagnosis device (R-LFI) that integrates near-field communication (NFC) with a portable smartphone for leptospiral detection in clinical samples. A specific monoclonal antibody against the pathogen was coated on a nitrocellulose membrane (NCM) where the test line was collocated. Two electrodes with a sandwich-like configuration were installed employing a conductive double-sided adhesive tape and connected with a NFC smartphone-based detection system. A half-sandwich immunocomplex formation induced high proton conduction, resulting in a considerable decrement in resistive response. The performance of the R-LFI sensor was evaluated using recombinant LipL32 (rLipL32), Leptospira interrogans, and clinical samples. The R-LFI device exhibited linear responses toward rLipL32 protein in phosphate buffer and L. interrogans-spiked healthy human serum samples within the concentration ranging from 1 to 1000 ng mL-1 (limit of detection (LOD): 0.29 ng mL-1) and from 104 to 106 cell mL-1 (LOD: 4.89 × 103 cell mL-1), respectively. Our R-LFI sensor successfully detected L. interrogans-positive clinical samples as confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This platform offers high specificity, selectivity, simplicity, miniscule sample volume, and no labeling element requirement. These desirable features make it particularly suitable for countries where medical facilities and resources are limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakda Jampasa
- Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok10330, Thailand
| | - Chahya Kreangkaiwal
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok10330, Thailand
| | - Kurt Kalcher
- Institute of Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, University of Graz, A-8010Graz, Austria
| | - Wassa Waiwinya
- Interdisciplinary Program, Medical Microbiology, Graduate School, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok10330, Thailand
| | - Teerasit Techawiwattanaboon
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok10330, Thailand.,Chula Vaccine Research Center (Chula VRC), Center of Excellence in Vaccine Research and Development, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok10330, Thailand
| | - Nopporn Songumpai
- Division of Infectious diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Hatyai Hospital, Songkhla90110, Thailand
| | | | | | | | - Saovanee Benjamanukul
- Department of Internal Medicine, Banphaeo General Hospital, Samut Sakhon74120, Thailand
| | - Orawon Chailapakul
- Electrochemistry and Optical Spectroscopy Center of Excellence (EOSCE), Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok10330, Thailand
| | - Kanitha Patarakul
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok10330, Thailand.,Chula Vaccine Research Center (Chula VRC), Center of Excellence in Vaccine Research and Development, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok10330, Thailand
| | - Sudkate Chaiyo
- Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok10330, Thailand.,Electrochemistry and Optical Spectroscopy Center of Excellence (EOSCE), Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok10330, Thailand.,Center of Excellence for Food and Water Risk Analysis (FAWRA), Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok10330, Thailand
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19
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Eyre MT, Souza FN, Carvalho-Pereira TSA, Nery N, de Oliveira D, Cruz JS, Sacramento GA, Khalil H, Wunder EA, Hacker KP, Hagan JE, Childs JE, Reis MG, Begon M, Diggle PJ, Ko AI, Giorgi E, Costa F. Linking rattiness, geography and environmental degradation to spillover Leptospira infections in marginalised urban settings: An eco-epidemiological community-based cohort study in Brazil. eLife 2022; 11:e73120. [PMID: 36111781 PMCID: PMC9560157 DOI: 10.7554/elife.73120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Zoonotic spillover from animal reservoirs is responsible for a significant global public health burden, but the processes that promote spillover events are poorly understood in complex urban settings. Endemic transmission of Leptospira, the agent of leptospirosis, in marginalised urban communities occurs through human exposure to an environment contaminated by bacteria shed in the urine of the rat reservoir. However, it is unclear to what extent transmission is driven by variation in the distribution of rats or by the dispersal of bacteria in rainwater runoff and overflow from open sewer systems. Methods We conducted an eco-epidemiological study in a high-risk community in Salvador, Brazil, by prospectively following a cohort of 1401 residents to ascertain serological evidence for leptospiral infections. A concurrent rat ecology study was used to collect information on the fine-scale spatial distribution of 'rattiness', our proxy for rat abundance and exposure of interest. We developed and applied a novel geostatistical framework for joint spatial modelling of multiple indices of disease reservoir abundance and human infection risk. Results The estimated infection rate was 51.4 (95%CI 40.4, 64.2) infections per 1000 follow-up events. Infection risk increased with age until 30 years of age and was associated with male gender. Rattiness was positively associated with infection risk for residents across the entire study area, but this effect was stronger in higher elevation areas (OR 3.27 95% CI 1.68, 19.07) than in lower elevation areas (OR 1.14 95% CI 1.05, 1.53). Conclusions These findings suggest that, while frequent flooding events may disperse bacteria in regions of low elevation, environmental risk in higher elevation areas is more localised and directly driven by the distribution of local rat populations. The modelling framework developed may have broad applications in delineating complex animal-environment-human interactions during zoonotic spillover and identifying opportunities for public health intervention. Funding This work was supported by the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation and Secretariat of Health Surveillance, Brazilian Ministry of Health, the National Institutes of Health of the United States (grant numbers F31 AI114245, R01 AI052473, U01 AI088752, R01 TW009504 and R25 TW009338); the Wellcome Trust (102330/Z/13/Z), and by the Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado da Bahia (FAPESB/JCB0020/2016). MTE was supported by a Medical Research UK doctorate studentship. FBS participated in this study under a FAPESB doctorate scholarship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max T Eyre
- Centre for Health Informatics, Computing, and Statistics, Lancaster University Medical SchoolLancasterUnited Kingdom
- Liverpool School of Tropical MedicineLiverpoolUnited Kingdom
| | - Fábio N Souza
- Institute of Collective Health, Federal University of BahiaSalvadorBrazil
| | | | - Nivison Nery
- Institute of Collective Health, Federal University of BahiaSalvadorBrazil
| | - Daiana de Oliveira
- Institute of Collective Health, Federal University of BahiaSalvadorBrazil
| | - Jaqueline S Cruz
- Institute of Collective Health, Federal University of BahiaSalvadorBrazil
| | | | - Hussein Khalil
- Institute of Collective Health, Federal University of BahiaSalvadorBrazil
- Swedish University of Agricultural SciencesUmeåSweden
| | - Elsio A Wunder
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Brazilian Ministry of HealthSalvadorBrazil
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public HealthNew HavenUnited States
| | | | - José E Hagan
- World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for EuropeCopenhagenDenmark
| | - James E Childs
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Brazilian Ministry of HealthSalvadorBrazil
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public HealthNew HavenUnited States
| | - Mitermayer G Reis
- Institute of Collective Health, Federal University of BahiaSalvadorBrazil
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Brazilian Ministry of HealthSalvadorBrazil
| | - Mike Begon
- Department of Evolution, Ecology and Behaviour, University of LiverpoolLiverpoolUnited Kingdom
| | - Peter J Diggle
- Centre for Health Informatics, Computing, and Statistics, Lancaster University Medical SchoolLancasterUnited Kingdom
| | - Albert I Ko
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Brazilian Ministry of HealthSalvadorBrazil
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public HealthNew HavenUnited States
| | - Emanuele Giorgi
- Centre for Health Informatics, Computing, and Statistics, Lancaster University Medical SchoolLancasterUnited Kingdom
| | - Federico Costa
- Centre for Health Informatics, Computing, and Statistics, Lancaster University Medical SchoolLancasterUnited Kingdom
- Institute of Collective Health, Federal University of BahiaSalvadorBrazil
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Brazilian Ministry of HealthSalvadorBrazil
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public HealthNew HavenUnited States
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20
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Richard E, Geslin J, Wurtzer S, Moulin L. Monitoring of Leptospira species diversity in freshwater bathing area and in rats in Paris, France. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 833:155121. [PMID: 35398418 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a neglected zoonotic disease with a worldwide distribution caused by bacterial pathogenic Leptospira. Rodents are considered as the main reservoir of Leptospira and transmission usually occurs through exposure to urine-contaminated environment. However, interactions between environment, rodent reservoir and human leptospirosis remain poorly studied. Here, we evaluated the concentration of Leptospira in surface water and captured rats in the city of Paris (France) from 2018 to 2020 using an integrity qPCR (Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction). All environmental samples (n = 1031) were positive for saprophytic Leptospira but pathogenic Leptospira P1 group were only found in 40% (n = 363; 2018) to 0% (n = 264; 2020) of samples. In the same time, analysis of 200 brown rat corpses trapped in the city, showed about 15% of positivity for Leptospira but the different method used for rats conservation (based on presence or absence of conservative agent) showed important variations in the Leptospira prevalence. Metagenomic analysis, based on rrs gene sequencing, was also carried out to evaluate the distribution of Leptospira in samples. Results could indicate that some species of Leptospira are found in surface waters as well as rats, but further study is needed to accurately describe the nature of the link between these two reservoirs. Quantification of Leptospira and pathogenic species description circulating inside animal reservoir living in the vicinity of freshwater in urban areas, will be helpful to understand the eco-epidemiology of leptospirosis and to establish prevention and intervention strategies, especially in the context of organization of recreative activity events in these urban areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Richard
- Eau de Paris, DRDQE, 33 Avenue Jean Jaurès, 94200 Ivry-Sur-Seine, France; Institut Pasteur, Unité Biologie des Spirochètes, 28 rue du docteur Roux, 75724 Paris, France
| | - Jacques Geslin
- Eau de Paris, DRDQE, 33 Avenue Jean Jaurès, 94200 Ivry-Sur-Seine, France
| | - Sébastien Wurtzer
- Eau de Paris, DRDQE, 33 Avenue Jean Jaurès, 94200 Ivry-Sur-Seine, France
| | - Laurent Moulin
- Eau de Paris, DRDQE, 33 Avenue Jean Jaurès, 94200 Ivry-Sur-Seine, France.
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21
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Chiriboga JD, Garcia J, Garcia D, Mena S, Leon-Rojas JE. The COVID-19 Mirage: A Young Biologist With an Atypical Presentation of a Zoonotic Disease During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Cureus 2022; 14:e26493. [PMID: 35919211 PMCID: PMC9339226 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.26493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 has become one of the main causes of febrile illness among emergency department patients and is always a differential diagnosis to keep in mind. Nonetheless, some patients with a history of exposure, persistent fever, and suspicion of COVID-19 end up having entirely different etiologies. Here, we present the case of a 29-year-old male biologist with an uncommon presentation of a zoonotic disease, characterized by unspecific signs and symptoms, which led to a delayed diagnosis, causing significant emotional distress in the patient. We also coin the term “COVID-19 Mirage," to serve as a constant reminder for clinicians of the effect that COVID-19 has caused on the differential diagnosis of fever of unknown etiology.
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22
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Tabei K, Win TZ, Kitashoji E, Brett-Major DM, Edwards T, Smith C, Mukadi P. Antibiotic prophylaxis for leptospirosis. Hippokratia 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd014959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kozue Tabei
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health; Nagasaki University; Nagasaki Japan
| | - Tin Zar Win
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health; Nagasaki University; Nagasaki Japan
| | - Emi Kitashoji
- Department of Clinical Medicine; Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University; Nagasaki Japan
| | - David M Brett-Major
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Biometrics; Uniformed Services University; Bethesda MD USA
| | - Tansy Edwards
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health; London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine; London UK
| | - Chris Smith
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases; London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine; London UK
| | - Patrick Mukadi
- Department of Clinical Medicine; Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University; Nagasaki Japan
- Program for Nurturing Global Leaders in Tropical and Emerging Communicable Diseases; Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University; Nagasaki Japan
- Institut National de Recherche Biomedicale (INRB); Kinshasa DRC
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23
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Kumar A, Varma VP, Sridhar K, Abdullah M, Vyas P, Ashiq Thalappil M, Chang YF, Faisal SM. Deciphering the Role of Leptospira Surface Protein LigA in Modulating the Host Innate Immune Response. Front Immunol 2022; 12:807775. [PMID: 34975922 PMCID: PMC8716722 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.807775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptospira, a zoonotic pathogen, is known to infect various hosts and can establish persistent infection. This remarkable ability of bacteria is attributed to its potential to modulate (activate or evade) the host immune response by exploiting its surface proteins. We have identified and characterized the domain of the variable region of Leptospira immunoglobulin-like protein A (LAV) involved in immune modulation. The 11th domain (A11) of the variable region of LigA (LAV) induces a strong TLR4 dependent innate response leading to subsequent induction of humoral and cellular immune responses in mice. A11 is also involved in acquiring complement regulator FH and binds to host protease Plasminogen (PLG), there by mediating functional activity to escape from complement-mediated killing. The deletion of A11 domain significantly impaired TLR4 signaling and subsequent reduction in the innate and adaptive immune response. It also inhibited the binding of FH and PLG thereby mediating killing of bacteria. Our study discovered an unprecedented role of LAV as a nuclease capable of degrading Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs). This nuclease activity was primarily mediated by A11. These results highlighted the moonlighting function of LigA and demonstrated that a single domain of a surface protein is involved in modulating the host innate immune defenses, which might allow the persistence of Leptospira in different hosts for a long term without clearance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajay Kumar
- Laboratory of Vaccine Immunology, National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Vivek P Varma
- Laboratory of Vaccine Immunology, National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India.,Graduate Studies, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Kavela Sridhar
- Laboratory of Vaccine Immunology, National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Mohd Abdullah
- Laboratory of Vaccine Immunology, National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India.,Department of Biosciences, Integral University, Lucknow, India
| | - Pallavi Vyas
- Laboratory of Vaccine Immunology, National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India
| | | | - Yung-Fu Chang
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Syed M Faisal
- Laboratory of Vaccine Immunology, National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India
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24
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Chen M, Lu W, Wu S, Wang S, Lu T, Peng C. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing in the diagnosis of leptospirosis presenting as severe diffuse alveolar hemorrhage: a case report and literature review. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:1230. [PMID: 34876042 PMCID: PMC8650322 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06923-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leptospirosis is a common infectious disease in tropical and semitropical regions, and it is typically neglected. Leptospirosis-associated acute diffuse alveolar hemorrhage is one of its fatal complications. The use of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) metagenomic next-generation sequencing in the diagnosis of Leptospira interrogans infection has rarely been reported. CASE PRESENTATION We present the case of a 62-year-old female who was transferred to our hospital with dyspnea, and severe hemoptysis and was supported by a tracheal intubation ventilator. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) reported Leptospira interrogans. A diagnosis of diffuse alveolar hemorrhage caused by leptospirosis was made. After immediately receiving antibiotics and hormone therapy, the patient achieved a complete recovery upon discharge. CONCLUSION Leptospirosis presenting as severe diffuse alveolar hemorrhage is rare but should be considered in the differential diagnosis. mNGS can help identify pathogens and treat them early, which can improve prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiqin Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou, 324000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Weili Lu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou, 324000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shugen Wu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou, 324000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shun Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou, 324000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tao Lu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou, 324000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chunxian Peng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou, 324000, Zhejiang, China.
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25
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Abdul Rahman MS, Khor KH, Khairani-Bejo S, Lau SF, Mazlan M, Roslan MA. Risk and Predictive Factors of Leptospirosis in Dogs Diagnosed with Kidney and/or Liver Disease in Selangor, Malaysia. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11123405. [PMID: 34944181 PMCID: PMC8698145 DOI: 10.3390/ani11123405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Canine leptospirosis is commonly associated with kidney and/or liver disease. The current study identified the potential risk and predictive factors of dogs diagnosed with kidney and/or liver disease due to leptospirosis. A total of 124 client-owned dogs were recruited and the samples collected were directly tested using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and subsequently inoculated for bacterial isolation. Statistical analyses were descriptively analyzed, and risk analyses were performed using Pearson chi-square tests and logistic regression. The different breeds of dog with history of exposure to rats and those managed outdoors had a greater risk of leptospirosis (p < 0.05). The significant predictors for the dogs’ positivity were presence of rats and acute clinical illness (p < 0.05). Administration of antibiotics and detection of clinical illness at an early stage of the disease improved the survivability of the dogs (p < 0.05). Abstract Canine leptospirosis is commonly associated with kidney and/or liver disease. It has been widely reported and causes public health concerns due to its zoonotic potential and its re-emergence, resulting from close contact between humans and dogs. The current study identified potential risk and predictive factors for dogs diagnosed with kidney and/or liver disease due to leptospirosis. A total of 124 client-owned dogs were recruited, and information such as signalment, medical history, management, and clinical findings were documented. Samples collected from the recruited dogs were directly tested using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and subsequently inoculated for bacterial isolation. Statistical analyses were descriptively analyzed, and risk analyses were performed using Pearson chi-square tests and logistic regression. A total of 53 dogs (42.7%) were positive for leptospiral infection based on PCR, and 10 leptospiral isolates were successfully recovered from eight dogs. The mortality rate of infected dogs was 34.0% (18/53). Medium and large dog breeds, with a history of exposure to rats, and managed outdoors had a greater risk for leptospirosis (p < 0.05). The significant predictors for the dogs’ positivity were the presence of rats and acute clinical illness (p < 0.05). Administration of antibiotics and the detection of clinical illness at an early stage of the disease improved the survivability of the dogs (p < 0.05). Identifying the profile of dogs that are at risk to leptospirosis could be useful in the design of diagnostic and treatment strategies, as well as to increase awareness for prevention of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Sabri Abdul Rahman
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (M.S.A.R.); (S.F.L.)
| | - Kuan Hua Khor
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (M.S.A.R.); (S.F.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +603-9769-3926
| | - Siti Khairani-Bejo
- Department of Veterinary Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.K.-B.); (M.M.); (M.A.R.)
| | - Seng Fong Lau
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (M.S.A.R.); (S.F.L.)
| | - Mazlina Mazlan
- Department of Veterinary Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.K.-B.); (M.M.); (M.A.R.)
| | - Mohd Azri Roslan
- Department of Veterinary Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.K.-B.); (M.M.); (M.A.R.)
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Motto SK, Shirima GM, de Clare Bronsvoort BM, Cook EAJ. Epidemiology of leptospirosis in Tanzania: A review of the current status, serogroup diversity and reservoirs. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009918. [PMID: 34784354 PMCID: PMC8631673 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tanzania is among the tropical countries of Sub-Saharan Africa with the environmental conditions favorable for transmission of Leptospira. Leptospirosis is a neglected zoonotic disease, and although there are several published reports from Tanzania, the epidemiology, genetic diversity of Leptospira and its host range are poorly understood. Methods We conducted a comprehensive review of human and animal leptospirosis within the 26 regions of the Tanzanian mainland. Literature searches for the review were conducted in PubMed and Google Scholar. We further manually identified studies from reference lists among retrieved studies from the preliminary search. Results We identified thirty-four studies describing leptospirosis in humans (n = 16), animals (n = 14) and in both (n = 4). The number of studies varied significantly across regions. Most of the studies were conducted in Morogoro (n = 16) followed by Kilimanjaro (n = 9) and Tanga (n = 5). There were a range of study designs with cross-sectional prevalence studies (n = 18), studies on leptospirosis in febrile patients (n = 13), a case control study in cattle (n = 1) and studies identifying novel serovars (n = 2). The most utilized diagnostic tool was the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) which detected antibodies to 17 Leptospira serogroups in humans and animals. The Leptospira serogroups with the most diverse hosts were Icterohaemorrhagiae (n = 11), Grippotyphosa (n = 10), Sejroe (n = 10), Pomona (n = 9) and Ballum (n = 8). The reported prevalence of Leptospira antibodies in humans ranged from 0.3–29.9% and risk factors were associated with occupational animal contact. Many potential reservoir hosts were identified with the most common being rodents and cattle. Conclusion Leptospirosis is prevalent in humans and animals in Tanzania, although there is regional and host variation in the reports. Many regions do not have information about the disease in either humans or their animal reservoirs. More studies are required to understand human leptospirosis determinants and the role of livestock in leptospirosis transmission to humans for the development of appropriate control strategies. Bacteria from the genus Leptospira is an important agent for causing a disease called leptospirosis in humans and a range of animal species. Leptospirosis is often under-recognized as it presents varied symptoms that mimic malaria, typhoid, brucellosis and other diseases. More than 250 pathogenic Leptospira serovars are known to cause leptospirosis in humans and animals. The diversity of Leptospira serovars and their distribution in humans and animals is little defined in Tanzania. We conducted a systematic review to gather information on the diversity of Leptospira serovars with their reservoir distribution and the most common diagnostics methods used. We included studies (n = 34) in the review and found 17 serogroups described in 28 studies that utilized microscopic agglutination test (MAT). So far human and other animal hosts including cattle, dogs, pigs, bats, buffalo, fish, rodents, goats, lion, zebra, sheep and shrews have been investigated for leptospirosis in Tanzania. Our results show that cattle and rodents are likely to be important reservoirs of pathogenic Leptospira spp. and can be a source of human leptospirosis principally in the farming system. Further studies are needed to explore predominant serovars in livestock for the development of prevention strategies to reduce transmission and risks in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabani Kiyabo Motto
- Department of Global Health and Bio-Medical Sciences, School of Life Science and Bio-engineering, The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology, Arusha, Tanzania
- Tanzania Veterinary Laboratory Agency, Central Veterinary Laboratory, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- * E-mail: (SKM); (EAJC)
| | - Gabriel Mkilema Shirima
- Department of Global Health and Bio-Medical Sciences, School of Life Science and Bio-engineering, The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology, Arusha, Tanzania
| | - Barend Mark de Clare Bronsvoort
- The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, United Kingdom
- Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health, The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth Anne Jessie Cook
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi, Kenya
- Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health, ILRI, Nairobi, Kenya
- * E-mail: (SKM); (EAJC)
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Wilkinson DA, Edwards M, Benschop J, Nisa S. Identification of pathogenic Leptospira species and serovars in New Zealand using metabarcoding. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257971. [PMID: 34587213 PMCID: PMC8480790 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease of global importance. The breadth of Leptospira diversity associated with both human and animal disease poses major logistical challenges to the use of classical diagnostic techniques, and increasingly molecular diagnostic tools are used for their detection. In New Zealand, this has resulted in an increase in positive cases reported nationally that have not been attributed to the infecting serovar or genomospecies. In this study, we used data from all pathogenic Leptospira genomes to identify a partial region of the glmU gene as a suitable locus for the discrimination of the infecting species and serovars of New Zealand-endemic Leptospira. This method can be used in culture and culture-independent scenarios making it flexible for diagnostics in humans, animals, and environmental samples. We explored the use of this locus as a molecular barcoding tool via the Oxford Nanopore Technology (ONT) sequencing platform MinION. Sequences obtained by this method allowed specific identification of Leptospira species in mixed and enriched environmental cultures, however read error inherent in the MinION sequencing system reduced the accuracy of strain/variant identification. Using this approach to characterise Leptospira in enriched environmental cultures, we detected the likely presence of Leptospira genomospecies that have not been reported in New Zealand to date. This included a strain of L. borgpetersenii that has recently been identified in dairy cattle and sequences similar to those of L. mayottensis. L. tipperaryensis, L. dzianensis and L. alstonii.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A. Wilkinson
- New Zealand Food Safety, Science & Research Centre, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
- UMR Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire Tropical (PIMIT) INSERM 1187, CNRS 9192, IRD 249, Université de La Réunion, Sainte-Clotilde, La Réunion, France
- Molecular Epidemiology and Public Health Laboratory, School of Veterinary Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
- * E-mail:
| | - Matthew Edwards
- Molecular Epidemiology and Public Health Laboratory, School of Veterinary Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Jackie Benschop
- Molecular Epidemiology and Public Health Laboratory, School of Veterinary Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Shahista Nisa
- Molecular Epidemiology and Public Health Laboratory, School of Veterinary Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Balamurugan V, Alamuri A, Kumar KV, Varghese B, Govindaraj G, Hemadri D, Roy P. Prevalence of anti-leptospiral antibodies and frequency distribution of Leptospira serovars in small ruminants in enzootic South Peninsular India. Vet World 2021; 14:2023-2030. [PMID: 34566317 PMCID: PMC8448631 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2021.2023-2030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: For understanding the epidemiology of leptospirosis, the confined abundance of several species of pathogenic leptospires and knowledge on the serovar(s) prevalent in the reservoir and carrier hosts may be a useful indicator of transmission to incidental/accidental hosts in a geographical niche. The present study was carried out to ascertain the frequency distribution of Leptospira serovars and the prevalence of anti-leptospiral antibodies in small ruminants (sheep and goats) in the epidemiological units (villages) in the coastal districts of enzootic regions in South Peninsular India. Materials and Methods: A total of 1167 serum samples (sheep n=299 and goats n=868) from apparently healthy animals, randomly collected from various epidemiological units were tested in microscopic agglutination test (MAT) using 18 reference Leptospira serovars antigens. Results: The overall seroprevalence of 40% (at 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 36.82-42.43) in small ruminants (44% [95% CI: 40.49-52.26] in sheep and 38% [95% CI: 34.96-41.41] in goats) was observed with the predominance of Icterohaemorrhagiae, Javanica, Australis, Hurstbridge, and Pyrogenes serogroup anti-leptospiral antibodies in the studied region. The Chi-squared test revealed that the presence of anti-leptospiral antibodies is significantly not independent (associated) across the administrative division (Chi-square=105.80, p<0.05) as well as for sheep (Chi-square=34.67, p<0.01) and goats (Chi-square=68.78, p<0.01). Among seropositive samples (n=462 reactors), the MAT was positive for more than one serovar in 73% of sheep (95/131) and 53% of goats (177/331), representing an overall 59% cross-reactive prevalence in small ruminants. The determined frequency distribution (varied among small ruminants) of the employed serovars representing major reactive serogroup was Icterohaemorrhagiae (29.87), Javanica (20.78), Australis (20.35), Hurstbridge (16.23), Pyrogenes (15.8), Djasmin (15.58), Bataviae (15.37), Autumnalis (14.5), Canicola (14.5), Hebdomadis (14.07), Shermani (13.64), Panama (13.42), Sejroe (12.77), etc. Conclusion: This study indicates alarmingly high seroprevalence of leptospirosis in small ruminants with existing endemicity in the studied region in South Peninsular India. Further, these prevalent serovars in the administrative division may be of use in the reference panels of antigens in the MAT in both humans and animal disease diagnostic laboratories for effective and timely diagnosis of leptospirosis and to combat the challenges in public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinayagamurthy Balamurugan
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Anusha Alamuri
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Kirubakaran Vinod Kumar
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Bibitha Varghese
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Gurrappanaidu Govindaraj
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Divakar Hemadri
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Parimal Roy
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.,Centre for Animal Health Studies, TANUVAS, Madhavaram Milk Colony, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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Md-Lasim A, Mohd-Taib FS, Abdul-Halim M, Mohd-Ngesom AM, Nathan S, Md-Nor S. Leptospirosis and Coinfection: Should We Be Concerned? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18179411. [PMID: 34502012 PMCID: PMC8431591 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18179411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Pathogenic Leptospira is the causative agent of leptospirosis, an emerging zoonotic disease affecting animals and humans worldwide. The risk of host infection following interaction with environmental sources depends on the ability of Leptospira to persist, survive, and infect the new host to continue the transmission chain. Leptospira may coexist with other pathogens, thus providing a suitable condition for the development of other pathogens, resulting in multi-pathogen infection in humans. Therefore, it is important to better understand the dynamics of transmission by these pathogens. We conducted Boolean searches of several databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, SciELO, and ScienceDirect, to identify relevant published data on Leptospira and coinfection with other pathogenic bacteria. We review the role of the host-microbiota in determining the synanthropic interaction of Leptospira sp. with other bacteria, thus creating a suitable condition for the leptospira to survive and persist successfully. We also discuss the biotic and abiotic factors that amplify the viability of Leptospira in the environment. The coinfection of leptospira with pathogenic bacteria has rarely been reported, potentially contributing to a lack of awareness. Therefore, the occurrence of leptospirosis coinfection may complicate diagnosis, long-lasting examination, and mistreatment that could lead to mortality. Identifying the presence of leptospirosis with other bacteria through metagenomic analysis could reveal possible coinfection. In conclusion, the occurrence of leptospirosis with other diseases should be of concern and may depend on the success of the transmission and severity of individual infections. Medical practitioners may misdiagnose the presence of multiple infections and should be made aware of and receive adequate training on appropriate treatment for leptospirosis patients. Physicians could undertake a more targeted approach for leptospirosis diagnosis by considering other symptoms caused by the coinfected bacteria; thus, more specific treatment could be given.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmalia Md-Lasim
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia; (A.M.-L.); (S.N.); (S.M.-N.)
- Herbal Medicine Research Centre (HMRC), Institute for Medical Research (IMR), National Institue of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health, Shah Alam 40170, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Farah Shafawati Mohd-Taib
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia; (A.M.-L.); (S.N.); (S.M.-N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +60-12-3807701
| | - Mardani Abdul-Halim
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia;
| | - Ahmad Mohiddin Mohd-Ngesom
- Center for Toxicology and Health Risk, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia;
| | - Sheila Nathan
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia; (A.M.-L.); (S.N.); (S.M.-N.)
| | - Shukor Md-Nor
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia; (A.M.-L.); (S.N.); (S.M.-N.)
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Current Evidence on the Antimicrobial Treatment and Chemoprophylaxis of Human Leptospirosis: A Meta-Analysis. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10091125. [PMID: 34578157 PMCID: PMC8467609 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10091125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leptospirosis is a worldwide zoonotic infection, and its management needs to be refined. This study aims to discern which antibiotic would be the best option to treat leptospirosis disease and analyze the efficacy of chemoprophylaxis regimens to prevent this illness. METHODS systematic review and meta-analysis on the efficacy of antibiotic treatment and chemoprophylaxis of leptospirosis in humans. RESULTS Ten clinical trials compared an antibiotic treatment with placebo or other antibiotic treatments in leptospirosis (the most recent one was published in 2007). The meta-analysis shows no effect of penicillin treatment on mortality compared to placebo (OR 1.65; 95% CI 0.76-3.57; p = 0.21). There are no differences between penicillin and cephalosporins or doxycycline. Penicillin does not reduce the time of defervescence (MD-0.16; 95% CI (-1.4) -1.08; p = 0.80) nor hospital stay (MD 0.15; 95% CI (-0.75)-1.06; p = 0.74). Besides, the data did not demonstrate any effectiveness of the use of penicillin in terms of the incidence of oliguria/anuria, the need for dialysis treatment, time to creatinine normalization, incidence of jaundice, or the liver function normalization time. Eight trials have assessed prophylactic treatment against leptospirosis with different strategies. A weekly dose of 200 mg of doxycycline does not show benefit versus placebo regarding the number of new cases of symptomatic leptospirosis (OR 0.20; 95% CI 0.02-1.87; p = 0.16). A single dose of doxycycline at exposure to flood water could have a beneficial effect (OR 0.23; 95% CI 0.07-0.77; p = 0.02). None of the other chemoprophylaxis regimens tested have shown a statistically significant effect on the number of new symptomatic cases. CONCLUSION There is no evidence that antibiotics are a better treatment than placebo regarding mortality, shortening of fever, liver and kidney function, or reduction in the hospital stay. On the other hand, neither doxycycline nor penicillin, nor azithromycin have shown statistically significant differences in preventing symptomatic infection. Well-designed clinical trials, including other antibiotics such as quinolones or aminoglycosides, are urgently needed to improve our understanding of the treatment for this infection, which continues to be a neglected disease.
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Bauer PK, Krause R, Fabian E, Aumüller ML, Schiller D, Adelsmayr G, Fuchsjäger M, Rechberger E, Schöfl R, Krejs GJ. Clinical-Pathological Conference Series from the Medical University of Graz : Case No 172: A 45-year-old truck driver with fever, vomiting, thrombocytopenia and renal failure. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2021; 133:1222-1230. [PMID: 34402989 PMCID: PMC8599315 DOI: 10.1007/s00508-021-01921-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Philipp K Bauer
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Robert Krause
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Elisabeth Fabian
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marja-Liisa Aumüller
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Barmherzige Schwestern Hospital, Ried, Austria
| | - Dietmar Schiller
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Elisabethinen Hospital, Linz, Austria
| | - Gabriel Adelsmayr
- Division of General Radiology, Department of Radiology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Michael Fuchsjäger
- Division of General Radiology, Department of Radiology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Ernst Rechberger
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Barmherzige Schwestern Hospital, Ried, Austria
| | - Rainer Schöfl
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Elisabethinen Hospital, Linz, Austria
| | - Guenter J Krejs
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036, Graz, Austria.
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Mukadi Kakoni P, Munyeku Bazitama Y, Nepomuceno JR, Pukuta-Simbu E, Kawhata Mawika F, Kashitu Mujinga G, Palla L, Ahuka-Mundeke S, Muyembe Tamfum JJ, Koizumi N, Kubo Y, Ariyoshi K, Smith C. Leptospirosis as a cause of fever associated with jaundice in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009670. [PMID: 34403427 PMCID: PMC8396788 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fever with jaundice is a common symptom of some infectious diseases. In public health surveillance within the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), yellow fever is the only recognized cause of fever with jaundice. However, only 5% of the surveillance cases are positive for yellow fever and thus indicate the involvement of other pathogens. Leptospira spp. are the causative agents of leptospirosis, a widespread bacterial zoonosis, a known cause of fever with jaundice. This study aimed to determine the seropositivity of anti-Leptospira antibodies among suspected yellow fever cases and map the geographical distribution of possible leptospirosis in the DRC. Methods We conducted a retrospective study using 1,300 samples from yellow fever surveillance in the DRC from January 2017 to December 2018. Serum samples were screened for the presence of IgM against Leptospira spp. by a whole cell-based IgM ELISA (Patoc-IgM ELISA) at the Institut National de Recherche Biomedicale in Kinshasa (INRB) according to World Health Organization (WHO) guidance. Exploratory univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were undertaken to assess associations between socio-demographic factors and the presence of Leptospira IgM. Results Of the 1,300 serum samples screened, 88 (7%) showed evidence of IgM against Leptospira spp. Most positive cases (34%) were young adult males in the 20–29-year group. There were statistically significant associations between having Leptospira IgM antibodies, age, sex, and living area. Observed positive cases were mostly located in urban settings, and the majority lived in the province of Kinshasa. There was a statistically significant association between seasonality and IgM Leptospira spp. positivity amongst those living in Kinshasa, where most of the positive cases occurred during the rainy season. Conclusions This study showed that leptospirosis is likely an overlooked cause of unexplained cases of fever with jaundice in the DRC and highlights the need to consider leptospirosis in the differential diagnosis of fever with jaundice, particularly in young adult males. Further studies are needed to identify animal reservoirs, associated risk factors, and the burden of human leptospirosis in the DRC. Leptospirosis is an important bacterial zoonosis with a worldwide distribution. Each year there are an estimated one million cases, with about 60,000 deaths. The true burden of the disease, however, is unknown. The burden of leptospirosis is probably underestimated due to the lack of specific clinical symptoms and diagnostic techniques that are not readily available. Clinical diagnosis of leptospirosis is difficult because of the diversity of symptoms, ranging from asymptomatic forms to severe multivisceral icteric states. Differential diagnoses with infections presenting with fever or fever and jaundice are numerous and may mislead the clinician. Leptospirosis is considered endemic in sub-Saharan Africa and is known to cause fever with jaundice in African countries; however, for most countries, available epidemiologic data are scarce, including in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). An improved understanding of the epidemiology of leptospirosis will improve clinical management, lead to policy formulation, and have implications for national surveillance of infectious diseases in these countries. We conducted a retrospective seroepidemiological study to extend the description of the pathogens responsible for fever with jaundice in the DRC and to clarify the circulation of possible leptospirosis in the country. This study showed that leptospirosis is a likely cause of fever with jaundice in the DRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Mukadi Kakoni
- Department of Global Health, School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Institut National de Recherche Biomedicale (INRB), Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Kinshasa, Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Program for Nurturing Global Leaders in Tropical and Emerging Communicable Diseases, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Yannick Munyeku Bazitama
- Institut National de Recherche Biomedicale (INRB), Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Kinshasa, Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Jean Raphael Nepomuceno
- Department of Global Health, School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Elisabeth Pukuta-Simbu
- Institut National de Recherche Biomedicale (INRB), Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | | | - Gracia Kashitu Mujinga
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Kinshasa, Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Luigi Palla
- Department of Global Health, School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Bacteriology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Steve Ahuka-Mundeke
- Institut National de Recherche Biomedicale (INRB), Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Kinshasa, Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Jean-Jacques Muyembe Tamfum
- Institut National de Recherche Biomedicale (INRB), Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Kinshasa, Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Nobuo Koizumi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Roma, Italy
| | - Yoshinao Kubo
- Program for Nurturing Global Leaders in Tropical and Emerging Communicable Diseases, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Koya Ariyoshi
- Department of Global Health, School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Chris Smith
- Department of Global Health, School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Goarant C, Dellagi K, Picardeau M. Ending the Neglect of Treatable Bacterial Zoonoses Responsible for Non-Malaria Fevers. THE YALE JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2021; 94:351-360. [PMID: 34211354 PMCID: PMC8223548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial zoonotic diseases such as leptospirosis, Q fever, melioidosis, spotted
fever group rickettsioses, and brucellosis are increasingly recognized causes of
non-malaria acute fevers. However, though readily treatable with antibiotics,
these diseases are commonly misdiagnosed resulting in poor outcomes in patients.
There is a considerable deficit in the understanding of basic aspects of the
epidemiology of these neglected diseases and diagnostic tests for these zoonotic
bacterial pathogens are not always available in resource-poor settings. Raising
awareness about these emerging bacterial zoonoses is directly beneficial to the
patients by allowing a test-and-treat approach and is essential to control these
life-threatening diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyrille Goarant
- Institut Pasteur de Nouvelle-Calédonie, Unité de Recherche et d'Expertise sur la Leptospirose, Nouméa, New Caledonia
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Nisansala T, Weerasekera M, Ranasinghe N, Marasinghe C, Gamage C, Fernando N, Gunasekara C. Importance of KIM-1 and MCP-1 in Determining the Leptospirosis-Associated AKI: A Sri Lankan Study. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:1752904. [PMID: 34124239 PMCID: PMC8192184 DOI: 10.1155/2021/1752904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute kidney injury (AKI) is one of most prevalent and serious complications of leptospirosis, a prevalent zoonotic disease in tropical countries. Prompt diagnosis of the leptospirosis-associated AKI is a challenge as there are no proper diagnostic tools that can identify patients in the early stage. Kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) are widely used novel AKI biomarkers that are studied in various disease conditions with AKI, but not in leptospirosis. Thus, this study is aimed at seeking the importance of KIM-1 and MCP-1 in determining the leptospirosis-associated AKI. METHODS Leptospirosis-suspected patients who were admitted to medical wards of two selected hospitals in the Western province of Sri Lanka were recruited. Leptospirosis was confirmed by three diagnostic tests: PCR, MAT, and culture, and the status of AKI was determined by Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria. RESULTS Of 170 leptospirosis-suspected patients, 79 were leptospirosis confirmed, and among them, 24.05% of patients were diagnosed to have AKI according to KDIGO criteria. Median serum KIM-1 (p < 0.0001), urine KIM-1 (0.0053), serum MCP-1 (0.0080), and urine MCP-1 (0.0019) levels in those developing AKI were significantly higher than in patients not developing AKI. The biomarker levels associated with leptospirosis AKI had AUC-ROC of 0.8565, 0.7292, 0.7024, and 0.7282 for serum KIM-1, urine KIM-1, serum MCP-1, and urine MCP-1, respectively. CONCLUSION This study revealed serum KIM-1 as a promising marker for leptospirosis-associated AKI among the tested biomarkers. Thus, further validation is recommended with a larger study group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thilini Nisansala
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
| | - Manjula Weerasekera
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
| | | | - Chamil Marasinghe
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
| | - Chandika Gamage
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Neluka Fernando
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
| | - Chinthika Gunasekara
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
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Richard E, Bourhy P, Picardeau M, Moulin L, Wurtzer S. Effect of disinfection agents and quantification of potentially viable Leptospira in fresh water samples using a highly sensitive integrity-qPCR assay. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251901. [PMID: 34038443 PMCID: PMC8153454 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is an emerging worldwide zoonotic disease, but the general biology of the causative agents is still poorly understood. Humans are an occasional host. The main risk factors are water-associated exposure during professional or recreational activities or during outbreaks in endemic areas. Detecting the presence of pathogenic bacteria in aquatic environments and their capacity to resist various inactivation processes are research fields that need to be further developed. In addition, the methods used for detecting and enumerating Leptospira still need to be improved. We aimed to describe a new quantitative polymerase chain reaction coupled to propidium monoazide treatment (PMAqPCR) that targets not only total Leptospira but also discriminates pathogenic from non-pathogenic Leptospira while also addressing PCR inhibitors, a frequently encountered problem when studying environmental water. In a second step, the killing efficiency of Leptospira to different treatments was tested and PMAqPCR compared to culture-based enumeration. This provided information about the effects of temperature, as well as ultraviolet and chlorine disinfection, that are both related to water treatment processes, in particular for the production of drinking water, on the persistence of both saprophytic and pathogenic Leptospira. Finally, PMAqPCR was used for the detection of Leptospira in freshwater samples for a proof-of-concept. In conclusion, our method could be used for routine freshwater monitoring and allows better evaluation of the presence of Leptospira, allowing evaluation of the bacterial dynamics in a designated area or assessment of the efficacy of water disinfection processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Richard
- Eau de Paris, DRDQE, Ivry-Sur-Seine, France
- Institut Pasteur, Unité Biologie des Spirochètes, Paris, France
| | - Pascale Bourhy
- Institut Pasteur, Unité Biologie des Spirochètes, Paris, France
| | - Mathieu Picardeau
- Institut Pasteur, Unité Biologie des Spirochètes, Paris, France
- * E-mail: (MP); (LM)
| | - Laurent Moulin
- Eau de Paris, DRDQE, Ivry-Sur-Seine, France
- * E-mail: (MP); (LM)
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Msemwa B, Mirambo MM, Silago V, Samson JM, Majid KS, Mhamphi G, Genchwere J, Mwakabumbe SS, Mngumi EB, Mgode G, Mshana SE. Existence of Similar Leptospira Serovars among Dog Keepers and Their Respective Dogs in Mwanza, Tanzania, the Need for a One Health Approach to Control Measures. Pathogens 2021; 10:609. [PMID: 34065745 PMCID: PMC8156512 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10050609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated seroepidemiology of Leptospira serovars among the dog keepers and their dogs in the city of Mwanza, Tanzania. A total of 205 dog keepers and 414 dogs were tested for Leptospira antibodies using a microscopic agglutination test (MAT). The median age of the dog keepers was 26 (inter quartile range (IQR): 17-40) years and median duration of keeping dogs was 36 (IQR: 24-120) months. The seropositivity of Leptospira antibodies was (33/205 (16.1%, 95% CI: 11.0-21.1) among dog keepers and (66/414 (15.9%, 95% CI: 12.4-19.4) among dogs, p = 0.4745. Among the serovars tested (Sokoine, Grippotyphosa, Kenya, Pomona and Hebdomadis), the most prevalent serovar was Sokoine in both dog keepers and their dogs (93.9% (31/33) vs. and 65.1% (43/66), p = 0.009). Thirty-one out of thirty-three seropositive dog keepers (93.9%) had dogs positive for Leptospira antibodies with 28 (84.9%) having similar serovars with their respective seropositive dogs. Having tertiary education (AOR: 0.24, 95% CI: 0.07-0.84, p = 0.026) independently protected individuals from being Leptospira seropositive. More than three quarters of dog keepers had similar serovars as their dogs, necessitating one health approach to control measures in endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betrand Msemwa
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Institute of Allied Health Sciences, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Bugando, Mwanza P.O. Box 1464, Tanzania;
| | - Mariam M. Mirambo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Bugando, Mwanza P.O. Box 1464, Tanzania; (V.S.); (J.M.S.); (S.E.M.)
| | - Vitus Silago
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Bugando, Mwanza P.O. Box 1464, Tanzania; (V.S.); (J.M.S.); (S.E.M.)
| | - Juma M. Samson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Bugando, Mwanza P.O. Box 1464, Tanzania; (V.S.); (J.M.S.); (S.E.M.)
| | - Khadija S. Majid
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Public Health, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro P.O. Box 3021, Tanzania;
| | - Ginethon Mhamphi
- SUA Pest Management Centre (SPMC), Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro P.O. Box 3110, Tanzania; (G.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Joseph Genchwere
- Tanzania Veterinary Laboratory Agency (TVLA), Lake Zone, Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, Mwanza P.O. Box 129, Tanzania;
| | - Subira S. Mwakabumbe
- Veterinary Investigation Centre (VIC), Lake Zone, Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, Mwanza P.O. Box 129, Tanzania;
| | - Elifuraha B. Mngumi
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Pathology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro P.O. Box 3016, Tanzania;
| | - Georgies Mgode
- SUA Pest Management Centre (SPMC), Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro P.O. Box 3110, Tanzania; (G.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Stephen E. Mshana
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Bugando, Mwanza P.O. Box 1464, Tanzania; (V.S.); (J.M.S.); (S.E.M.)
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Sandoval-Carrillo AA, Salas-Pacheco JM, Antuna-Salcido EI, Castro-Martínez KS, Ortiz-Montaño DS, Beristain-Garcia I, Alvarado-Retana HM, Ramos-Nevarez A, Salas-Pacheco SM, Sifuentes-Alvarez A, Rábago-Sánchez E, Cerrillo-Soto SM, Castellanos-Juárez FX, Contreras-Cisneros E, Alvarado-Esquivel C. Leptospira infection in people in the city of Durango, Mexico: a cross sectional study. J Int Med Res 2021; 49:3000605211004020. [PMID: 33823643 PMCID: PMC8033475 DOI: 10.1177/03000605211004020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To determine the seroprevalence of Leptospira immunoglobulin
(Ig)G and IgM antibodies and its association with the characteristics of the
study population from the northern Mexican city of Durango, Mexico. Methods Through a cross-sectional study design, inhabitants of Durango City, Mexico
were surveyed between June 2018 and November 2018. Serum samples from the
subjects were analysed for anti-Leptospira IgG and IgM
antibodies using commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.
Sociodemographic, clinical, behavioural and housing characteristics were
recorded. Data were analysed by bivariate and multivariate analyses. Results The study enrolled 413 people, of which 124 (30.0%) and 137 (33.2%) were
positive for anti-Leptospira IgG antibodies and
anti-Leptospira IgM antibodies, respectively.
Multivariate analysis showed that Leptospira seropositivity
was associated with professional occupation, alcohol consumption, ill
clinical status, memory impairment and a history of surgery. Conclusions This is the first study to report the seroepidemiology of
Leptospira infection in an urban general population in
the north of Mexico. The seroprevalence of Leptospira
infection found was higher than those previously reported in Mexican
studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José Manuel Salas-Pacheco
- Institute for Scientific Research "Dr. Roberto Rivera Damm", Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Agar Ramos-Nevarez
- Clínica de Medicina Familiar, Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado, Durango, Mexico
| | - Sergio Manuel Salas-Pacheco
- Institute for Scientific Research "Dr. Roberto Rivera Damm", Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
| | - Antonio Sifuentes-Alvarez
- Biomedical Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
| | - Elizabeth Rábago-Sánchez
- Biomedical Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
| | - Sandra Margarita Cerrillo-Soto
- Clínica de Medicina Familiar, Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado, Durango, Mexico
| | | | - Edith Contreras-Cisneros
- Clínica de Medicina Familiar, Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado, Durango, Mexico
| | - Cosme Alvarado-Esquivel
- Biomedical Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
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Fabian E, Wenisch C, Eisner F, Muhr T, Bauer PK, Prein K, Maierhofer U, Lax SF, Krause R, Zollner G, Weihs W, Krejs GJ. Clinical-Pathological Conference Series from the Medical University of Graz : Case No 164: A 46-year-old man with abdominal pain, dyspnea and rapidly progressing multiorgan failure. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2021; 133:731-740. [PMID: 33871688 PMCID: PMC8053743 DOI: 10.1007/s00508-021-01841-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Fabian
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christoph Wenisch
- 4th Department of Internal Medicine with Infectious and Tropical Medicine, State Hospital Klinik Favoriten, Vienna, Austria
| | - Florian Eisner
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Tina Muhr
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, State Hospital (LKH) Graz II, Graz, Austria
| | - Philipp K Bauer
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kurt Prein
- Department of Pathology, State Hospital (LKH) Graz II, Graz, Austria
| | - Urša Maierhofer
- Department of Pathology, State Hospital (LKH) Graz II, Graz, Austria
| | - Sigurd F Lax
- Department of Pathology, State Hospital (LKH) Graz II, Graz, Austria
| | - Robert Krause
- Section of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Gernot Zollner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Weihs
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, State Hospital (LKH) Graz II, Graz, Austria
| | - Guenter J Krejs
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036, Graz, Austria.
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Zakharova OI, Korennoy FI, Iashin IV, Toropova NN, Gogin AE, Kolbasov DV, Surkova GV, Malkhazova SM, Blokhin AA. Ecological and Socio-Economic Determinants of Livestock Animal Leptospirosis in the Russian Arctic. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:658675. [PMID: 33912609 PMCID: PMC8071861 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.658675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a re-emerging zoonotic infectious disease caused by pathogenic bacteria of the genus Leptospira. Regional differences in the disease manifestation and the role of ecological factors, specifically in regions with a subarctic and arctic climate, remain poorly understood. We here explored environmental and socio-economic features associated with leptospirosis cases in livestock animals in the Russian Arctic during 2000–2019. Spatial analysis suggested that the locations of the majority of 808 cases were in “boreal” or “polar” climate regions, with “cropland,” “forest,” “shrubland,” or “settlements” land-cover type, with a predominance of “Polar Moist Cropland on Plain” ecosystem. The cases demonstrated seasonality, with peaks in March, June, and August, corresponding to the livestock pasturing practices. We applied the Forest-based Classification and Regression algorithm to explore the relationships between the cumulative leptospirosis incidence per unit area by municipal districts (G-rate) and a number of socio-economic, landscape, and climatic factors. The model demonstrated satisfactory performance in explaining the observed disease distribution (R2 = 0.82, p < 0.01), with human population density, livestock units density, the proportion of crop area, and budgetary investments into agriculture per unit area being the most influential socio-economic variables. Climatic factors demonstrated a significantly weaker influence, with nearly similar contributions of mean yearly precipitation and air temperature and number of days with above-zero temperatures. Using a projected climate by 2100 according to the RCP8.5 scenario, we predict a climate-related rise of expected disease incidence across most of the study area, with an up to 4.4-fold increase in the G-rate. These results demonstrated the predominant influence of the population and agricultural production factors on the observed increase in leptospirosis cases in livestock animals in the Russian Arctic. These findings may contribute to improvement in the regional system of anti-leptospirosis measures and may be used for further studies of livestock leptospirosis epidemiology at a finer scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga I Zakharova
- Federal Research Center for Virology and Microbiology, Nizhny Novgorod Research Veterinary Institute-Branch of Federal Research Center for Virology and Microbiology, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Fedor I Korennoy
- Federal Research Center for Virology and Microbiology, Nizhny Novgorod Research Veterinary Institute-Branch of Federal Research Center for Virology and Microbiology, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia.,Federal Center for Animal Health (FGBI ARRIAH), Vladimir, Russia
| | - Ivan V Iashin
- Federal Research Center for Virology and Microbiology, Nizhny Novgorod Research Veterinary Institute-Branch of Federal Research Center for Virology and Microbiology, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Nadezhda N Toropova
- Federal Research Center for Virology and Microbiology, Nizhny Novgorod Research Veterinary Institute-Branch of Federal Research Center for Virology and Microbiology, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Andrey E Gogin
- Federal Research Center for Virology and Microbiology, Pokrov, Russia
| | - Denis V Kolbasov
- Federal Research Center for Virology and Microbiology, Pokrov, Russia
| | - Galina V Surkova
- Faculty of Geography, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Andrei A Blokhin
- Federal Research Center for Virology and Microbiology, Nizhny Novgorod Research Veterinary Institute-Branch of Federal Research Center for Virology and Microbiology, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
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Bao QH, Yu L, Ding JJ, Chen YJ, Wang JW, Pang JM, Jin Q. Severe community-acquired pneumonia caused by Leptospira interrogans: A case report and review of literature. World J Clin Cases 2021; 9:1901-1908. [PMID: 33748240 PMCID: PMC7953396 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v9.i8.1901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leptospira is an uncommon pathogen for adult severe community-acquired pneumonia and its nonspecific manifestations and limited diagnostic tests make it difficult to identify. Although conventional penicillin remains efficacious to treat leptospirosis, failure in early diagnosis and treatment can lead to progression into a deadly syndrome with multiple organ dysfunction. Next generation sequencing is of great value to understand cases with infection of unknown cause, which could help in the diagnosis of uncertain Leptospira infection.
CASE SUMMARY We recently managed a patient with fever, cough and dyspnea on admission that progressed into persistent adult respiratory distress syndrome, hemoptysis and hematuria after admission. In this case, the rare Leptospira infection was clouded by the positive influenza tests at admission, delaying early Leptospira-targeted antibiotics administration. Next generation sequencing, a novel molecular diagnostic tool, provided a key hint to uncover the crucial pathogen, Leptospira interrogans, further supported by the possible occupational exposure history. Subsequent conventional penicillin and mechanical respiratory support were administrated to cure the patient successfully without any sequela.
CONCLUSION Clinicians must pay attention to possible exposure history and keep uncommon Leptospira in mind when managing pneumonia with unknown causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu-Hong Bao
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Medicine, Tiantai Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Tiantai 317200, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Li Yu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tiantai Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Tiantai 317200, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jian-Jun Ding
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Tiantai Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Tiantai 317200, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ying-Jun Chen
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tiantai Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Tiantai 317200, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jun-Wei Wang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tiantai Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Tiantai 317200, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jian-Ming Pang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Medicine, Tiantai Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Tiantai 317200, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Qi Jin
- ICU Administration, Tiantai Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Taizhou 317200, Zhejiang Province, China
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Dreyfus A, Ruf MT, Mayer-Scholl A, Zitzl T, Loosli N, Bier NS, Hiereth S, Ulrich S, Poppert S, Straubinger RK, Stenos J, Tshokey T. Exposure to Leptospira spp. and Associated Risk Factors in the Human, Cattle and Dog Populations in Bhutan. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10030308. [PMID: 33800914 PMCID: PMC8000015 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10030308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a neglected worldwide zoonotic bacterial disease with a high prevalence in subtropical and tropical countries. The prevalence of Leptospira spp. in humans, cattle and dogs is unknown in Bhutan. Therefore, we sought to find out whether humans, cattle or dogs had been infected in the past with leptospires by measuring antibodies in the serum. We therefore collected blood from 864 humans ≥13 years of age, 130 bovines and 84 dogs from different rural and urban areas in Bhutan and tested the serum for antibodies specific for leptospires with a screening of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and a confirmatory microscopic agglutination test (MAT). In humans, 17.6% were seropositive by ELISA and 1.6% by MAT. The seropositivity was stronger in bovines (36.9%) and dogs (47.6%). "Having had a fever recently" (OR 5.2, p = 0.004), "working for the military" (OR 26.6, p = 0.028) and "being unemployed" (OR 12.9, p = 0.041) (reference category = housemaker) were statistically significantly associated with seropositivity when controlled for the effects of other risk factors. However, due to the small number of positive test results, the findings on risk factors should be interpreted with caution. Based on the serogroups found in the three species, dogs could be a source of infection for humans, or dogs and humans are exposed to the same environmental risk factors Clinical leptospirosis in humans and domestic animals should be investigated by testing blood and urine for the presence of leptospires by molecular methods (qPCR).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anou Dreyfus
- Department of Medicine, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, 4055 Basel, Switzerland; (M.-T.R.); (N.L.); (S.P.)
- Medical Faculty, University of Basel, 4055 Basel, Switzerland
- Epidemiology and Clinical Research Unit, Institut Pasteur Madagascar, Antananarivo 101, Madagascar
- Correspondence:
| | - Marie-Thérèse Ruf
- Department of Medicine, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, 4055 Basel, Switzerland; (M.-T.R.); (N.L.); (S.P.)
- Medical Faculty, University of Basel, 4055 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Anne Mayer-Scholl
- Department of Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, 10589 Berlin, Germany; (A.M.-S.); (N.S.B.)
| | - Theresa Zitzl
- Institute of Hygiene and Infectious Diseases of Animals, Justus Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany;
- Chair for Bacteriology and Mycology, Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, 80539 Munich, Germany; (S.H.); (S.U.); or (R.K.S.)
| | - Nadine Loosli
- Department of Medicine, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, 4055 Basel, Switzerland; (M.-T.R.); (N.L.); (S.P.)
- Medical Faculty, University of Basel, 4055 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nadja Seyhan Bier
- Department of Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, 10589 Berlin, Germany; (A.M.-S.); (N.S.B.)
| | - Stephanie Hiereth
- Chair for Bacteriology and Mycology, Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, 80539 Munich, Germany; (S.H.); (S.U.); or (R.K.S.)
| | - Sebastian Ulrich
- Chair for Bacteriology and Mycology, Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, 80539 Munich, Germany; (S.H.); (S.U.); or (R.K.S.)
| | - Sven Poppert
- Department of Medicine, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, 4055 Basel, Switzerland; (M.-T.R.); (N.L.); (S.P.)
- Medical Faculty, University of Basel, 4055 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Reinhard K. Straubinger
- Chair for Bacteriology and Mycology, Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, 80539 Munich, Germany; (S.H.); (S.U.); or (R.K.S.)
| | - John Stenos
- Australian Rickettsial Reference Laboratory, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia;
| | - Tshokey Tshokey
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital, Thimphu 11001, Bhutan;
- Faculty of Postgraduate Medicine, Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan, Thimphu 11001, Bhutan
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Galan DI, Roess AA, Pereira SVC, Schneider MC. Epidemiology of human leptospirosis in urban and rural areas of Brazil, 2000-2015. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247763. [PMID: 33661947 PMCID: PMC7932126 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Leptospirosis is one of the most widespread zoonosis in the world and Brazil has the highest number of cases in Latin America. Transmission occurs mainly through exposure to water and soil contaminated by the urine of infected animals. The goals of this study are to describe the geographic distribution, demographic characteristics and exposure factors of urban and rural cases of leptospirosis, and identify spatial clusters in urban and rural areas of Brazil. Methods/results A retrospective epidemiological study was carried out using 16 years (2000–2015) of surveillance data from the Brazilian Ministry of Health. Cases were described by age, sex and race, and exposure factors were characterized in urban and rural areas. A spatial autocorrelation analysis was conducted using local Moran’s I to identify urban and rural clusters of disease. On average 3,810 leptospirosis cases were reported annually with higher numbers in urban areas. National urban and rural incidence rates were the same (1.9 cases/100,000 population), however, regional differences were observed. Urban incidence rates were higher in the North and Northeast regions, while rural incidence rates were higher in the Southeast and South. The main exposure factor reported in urban and rural areas was exposure to places with signs of rodents, followed by flood in urban areas and agriculture and animal farming in rural areas. Clusters of leptospirosis were identified in densely populated urban areas of the North, Southeast and South regions, while rural clusters were concentrated in of the Southern region with large agriculture and animal farming practices. Conclusions This study highlights that leptospirosis is an important public health problem in both urban and rural areas of Brazil. The results provide decision-makers with detailed information about where disease incidence is high and can be used in the development of prevention and control strategies for priority areas and risk groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deise I. Galan
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Amira A. Roess
- Department of Global and Community Health, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, United States of America
| | | | - Maria Cristina Schneider
- Department of International Health, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
- Institute of Studies in Collective Health, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Karim AJ, Abbas ZM. Histopathology of the kidney and seroprevalence of leptospirosis in wild rats in Baghdad Province, Iraq. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ONE HEALTH 2021. [DOI: 10.14202/ijoh.2021.19-30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Leptospirosis, caused by pathogenic leptospires, is a globally emerging infectious disease affecting both humans and animals, which act as reservoirs, with large outbreaks worldwide. The role of rats in dispersing leptospirosis was never investigated in Iraq. Because of the seriousness of the disease and the scarce data regarding this disease in Iraq, this study determines the incidence of leptospirosis in rats and its renal histopathological profile.
Materials and Methods: Of 211 captured rats, 82 apparently healthy rats were included in this study. After euthanatizing, 3-5-ml blood was collected by cardiac puncture. Approximately 0.5 cm3 of the kidney was collected for routine histopathology and stained using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Warthin–Starry (WS) stains. Blood smears were prepared and stained with the WS stain.
Results: All rats (100%) with different age groups were immunoglobulin G (IgG)-positive, and 90.24% of them had the IgG against leptospiral antigens in kidney tissues. The juvenile age group had higher IgG levels than other age groups. Considering sex, no significant differences in the overall results were observed. Serum concentrations of blood urea nitrogen and creatinine showed significant increments in the sub-adult and adult IgG- positive groups compared with the IgG-negative groups. No significant alterations were observed in the juvenile group. Using WS stains, 13 and 1 blood smears and 0 and 8 kidney tissues were positive for leptospires in the sub-adult and adult groups, respectively. Microscopical findings of the renal cortex and medulla in the sub-adult IgG-positive group showed hemorrhage, glomerular deterioration, tubular cell degeneration and necrosis with cast formation, periarterial edema, and focal hemorrhage with congestion of peritubular arteries. The adult IgG-positive group revealed deterioration similar to that in the sub-adult group and tended to be chronic. No leptospires were observed using H&E staining.
Conclusion: IgG-positive carrier rats refer to previously exposed or infected rats. Understanding the risk of transmitting the disease to human and animals through a carrier rat's urine is highly predicted and possible mitigation of zoonotic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulkarim Jafar Karim
- Unit of Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Zainab Majid Abbas
- Department of Pathological Analysis, Babylon Technical Institute, Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical University, Babylon, Iraq
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Determining the Value of Angiopoietin-2 Biomarker in Predicting Complications of Leptospirosis. ARCHIVES OF CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2020. [DOI: 10.5812/archcid.87162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Leptospirosis is a common zoonosis disease that is potentially life-threatening all around the world. Angiopoietin-2 can be used as an indicator to determine the severity of the disease in critically ill patients. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the value of angiopoietin-2 biomarker in predicting leptospirosis complications. Methods: In this prospective observational study, 90 participants, including 45 patients with leptospirosis and 45 participants in the control group, are studied. Three to five days after the onset of symptoms before starting treatment with antibiotics, 5 mL venous blood was taken to measuring the angiopoietin-2 level by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: In this study, 75 men (83.3%) and 15 women (16.7%) with an age distribution of 23 to 75 years participated. A total of 74 (82.3%) patients were employed in the agriculture sector, while 59 (65.6%) lived in rural areas. There was a significant relationship between patients with severe forms of leptospirosis and levels of angiopoietin-2 (P-value < 0.01). Also, there was a significant relationship between angiopoietin-2 biomarker level and markers of disease severity such as anemia (P-value < 0.01), oliguria (P-value < 0.01), severe thrombocytopenia (P-value < 0.01), length of stay (P-value < 0.01), and CRP more than 2+ (P-value < 0.001). Conclusions: This study demonstrated that angiopoietin-2 biomarker can be used in screening disease severity and predicting complications of leptospirosis.
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Chaiwattanarungruengpaisan S, Thepapichaikul W, Paungpin W, Ketchim K, Suwanpakdee S, Thongdee M. Potentially Pathogenic Leptospira in the Environment of an Elephant Camp in Thailand. Trop Med Infect Dis 2020; 5:tropicalmed5040183. [PMID: 33291225 PMCID: PMC7768412 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed5040183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospira is the causative agent of leptospirosis, a globally emerging zoonotic disease. The infection is commonly acquired through contact with the contaminated environment. To extend the knowledge on environmental source of leptospirosis, we investigated the presence of Leptospira in an elephant camp setting where the interaction between humans, animals, and the shared environment occur particularly when engaging in recreational activities. In this study, a total of 24 environmental samples were collected from an elephant camp area in western Thailand. All samples were processed for Leptospira isolation using the EMJH medium. The identification of Leptospira species was carried out by partial 16S rRNA and secY gene sequencing. Of those 24 samples, 18 samples (75%) were culture-positive for Leptospira. The recovered leptospires were mostly derived from water and soil sampled from a river and a mud pond, the main areas for recreational activities. The majority of the isolates were classified into “Pathogens” clade (89%, 16/18) and more than half of the isolates (61%, 11/18) contained species of the “Saprophytes” clade. Notably, two soil isolates from the river beach sampling area were found to contain leptospiral DNA with high similarity to the pathogenic L. interrogans and L. santarosai. The evidence of diverse Leptospira species, particularly those belonging to the “Pathogens” clade, suggest that the shared environments of an elephant camp can serve as potential infection source and may pose a risk to the elephant camp tourists and workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somjit Chaiwattanarungruengpaisan
- The Monitoring and Surveillance Center for Zoonotic Diseases in Wildlife and Exotic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand; (S.C.); (W.P.); (K.K.); (S.S.)
| | - Wasinee Thepapichaikul
- Livestock and Wildlife Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Sai Yok, Kanchanaburi 71150, Thailand;
| | - Weena Paungpin
- The Monitoring and Surveillance Center for Zoonotic Diseases in Wildlife and Exotic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand; (S.C.); (W.P.); (K.K.); (S.S.)
| | - Kanokwan Ketchim
- The Monitoring and Surveillance Center for Zoonotic Diseases in Wildlife and Exotic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand; (S.C.); (W.P.); (K.K.); (S.S.)
| | - Sarin Suwanpakdee
- The Monitoring and Surveillance Center for Zoonotic Diseases in Wildlife and Exotic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand; (S.C.); (W.P.); (K.K.); (S.S.)
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand
| | - Metawee Thongdee
- The Monitoring and Surveillance Center for Zoonotic Diseases in Wildlife and Exotic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand; (S.C.); (W.P.); (K.K.); (S.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +66-2441-5236
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Age-specific epidemiology of human leptospirosis in New Caledonia, 2006-2016. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0242886. [PMID: 33253284 PMCID: PMC7703958 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
With over one million cases worldwide annually and a high fatality in symptomatic forms, human leptospirosis is a growing public health concern for the most vulnerable populations, especially in the context of global warming and unplanned urbanization. Although the Asia-Pacific region is particularly affected, accurate epidemiological data are often lacking. We conducted an eleven-year retrospective laboratory-based epidemiological survey of human leptospirosis in New Caledonia. From 2006 to 2016, 904 cases were laboratory-confirmed, including 29 fatalities, corresponding to an average annual incidence of 30.6/100,000 and a case fatality rate of 3.2%. Over the period, there was a major shift from indirect serological diagnosis by MAT to direct diagnosis by real-time PCR, a more specific and sensitive test when performed early in the course of the disease. The systematic implementation of genotyping informed on the variety of the infective strains involved, with a predominance of serogroups Icterohaemorrhagiae and Pyrogenes. The epidemiological pattern showed a marked seasonality with an annual peak in March-April. Interestingly, the seasonal peak in children of school age was significantly earlier and corresponded to school holidays, suggesting that attending school from February on could protect children from environment-borne leptospirosis.
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Tekemen D, Franz M, Bier NS, Richter M, Nöckler K, Luge E, Mayer-Scholl A. Survival time of Leptospira kirschneri on strawberries. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237466. [PMID: 32790762 PMCID: PMC7425971 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past decade, two leptospirosis outbreaks occurred among strawberry harvesters in Germany, with 13, and 45 reported cases respectively. In both outbreaks, common voles (Microtus arvalis) infected with Leptospira kischneri serovar Grippotyphosa were identified as the most likely outbreak source. In an univariate analysis, eating unwashed strawberries was identified as one of the risk factors associated with Leptospira infection. The aim of this study was to evaluate the survival time of L. kirschneri serovar Grippotyphosa on strawberries under varying conditions. Strawberries were spiked with 5x109 of both a laboratory reference strain (strain Moskva V) and an outbreak field strain (94-6/2007) of L. kirschneri serovar Grippotyphosa sequence type 110. Survival times were investigated in a fully crossed design with three incubation times (2h, 4h, 6h and 8h) and three temperatures (15°C, 21°C and 25°C) with three replicated for each condition. A wash protocol was developed and recovered Leptospira were determined by qPCR, dark field microscopy and culturing. Viable L. kirschneri of both the reference strain and the field strain were identified in all samples at 25°C and an incubation time of 2h, but only 1/9 (11%) and 4/9 (44%) of the samples incubated at 15°C were positive, respectively. Both reference and field strain were viable only in 2/9 (22%) at 25° after 6h. After an 8h incubation, viable Leptospira could not be identified on the surface of the strawberries or within the fruit for any of the tested conditions. Based on these results, the exposure risk of consumers to viable Leptospira spp. through the consumption of strawberries bought at the retail level is most likely very low. However, there is a potential risk of Leptospira infection by consumption of strawberries on pick-your-own farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duygu Tekemen
- Department of Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mathias Franz
- Department Exposure, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nadja S. Bier
- Department of Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
| | - Martin Richter
- Department of Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
| | - Karsten Nöckler
- Department of Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
| | - Enno Luge
- Department of Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anne Mayer-Scholl
- Department of Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
- * E-mail:
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Gamage CD, Sato Y, Kimura R, Yamashiro T, Toma C. Understanding leptospirosis eco-epidemiology by environmental DNA metabarcoding of irrigation water from two agro-ecological regions of Sri Lanka. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008437. [PMID: 32701971 PMCID: PMC7377381 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Leptospirosis is one of the most significant zoonoses across the world not only because of its impact on human and animal health but also because of the economic and social impact on agrarian communities. Leptospirosis is endemic in Sri Lanka where paddy farming activities, the use of draught animals in agriculture, and peridomestic animals in urban and rural areas play important roles in maintaining the infection cycle of pathogenic Leptospira, especially concerning animals as a potential reservoir. In this study, an environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding methodology was applied in two different agro-ecological regions of Sri Lanka to understand the eco-epidemiology of leptospirosis. Methodology/Principal findings Irrigation water samples were collected in Kandy District (wet zone mid-country region 2) and Girandurukotte, Badulla District (intermediate zone low-country region 2); and analysed for the presence of pathogenic Leptospira, associated microbiome and the potential reservoir animals. Briefly, we generated PCR products for high-throughput sequencing of multiple amplicons through next-generation sequencing. The analysis of eDNA showed different environmental microbiomes in both regions and a higher diversity of Leptospira species circulating in Kandy than in Girandurukotte. Moreover, the number of sequence reads of pathogenic Leptospira species associated with clinical cases such as L. interrogans was higher in Kandy than in Girandurukotte. Kandy also showed more animal species associated with pathogenic bacterial species than Girandurukotte. Finally, several pathogenic bacterial species including Arcobacter cryaerophilus, responsible for abortion in animals, was shown to be associated with pathogenic Leptospira. Conclusions/Significance Leptospirosis has been considered to be endemic in wet regions, consistently, leptospiral sequences were detected strongly in Kandy. The great Leptospira species diversity in Kandy observed in this study shows that the etiological agents of leptospirosis in Sri Lanka might be underestimated. Furthermore, our eDNA metabarcoding can be used to discriminate bacterial and animal species diversity in different regions and to explore environmental microbiomes to identify other associated bacterial pathogens in the environment. Leptospirosis is a widespread bacterial zoonosis with increasing importance due to its vast range of reservoir hosts. Early symptoms are shared by other infectious diseases common in tropical and sub-tropical regions, where the real burden and risk factors need to be known. In Sri Lanka, leptospirosis is mostly an occupational disease associated with freshwater or animal exposure in agriculture communities. Thus, there is a need for understanding the epidemiology of leptospirosis in agrarian regions of the country for developing better prevention and intervention strategies. In this study, we applied an environmental DNA metabarcoding methodology to understand the environmental microbiome, potential reservoir animals and the Leptospira species circulating in two different agro-ecological regions of Sri Lanka: Kandy (wet region mid-country region 2) and Girandurukotte (intermediate region low-country region 2). It is known that pathogenic Leptospira are excreted through the urine of reservoir animals in the environment, where they can persist in humid conditions. Congruently, this study showed a higher detection of pathogenic Leptospira in the environment of Kandy where the environmental microbiome showed a higher diversity than Girandurukotte. Potential animal reservoirs were also detected in samples positive for pathogenic Leptospira, suggesting that environmental DNA metabarcoding can provide important information for management and intervention strategies to control leptospirosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandika D. Gamage
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Kandy, Sri Lanka
| | - Yukuto Sato
- Center for Strategic Research Project, Organization for Research Promotion, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
- * E-mail: (YS); (CT)
| | - Ryosuke Kimura
- Department of Human Biology and Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Tetsu Yamashiro
- Department of Bacteriology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Claudia Toma
- Department of Bacteriology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
- * E-mail: (YS); (CT)
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Heterologous Expression of the Pathogen-Specific LIC11711 Gene in the Saprophyte L. biflexa Increases Bacterial Binding to Laminin and Plasminogen. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9080599. [PMID: 32707797 PMCID: PMC7460275 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9080599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a febrile disease and the etiological agents are pathogenic bacteria of the genus Leptospira. The leptospiral virulence mechanisms are not fully understood and the application of genetic tools is still limited, despite advances in molecular biology techniques. The leptospiral recombinant protein LIC11711 has shown interaction with several host components, indicating a potential function in virulence. This study describes a system for heterologous expression of the L. interrogans gene lic11711 using the saprophyte L. biflexa serovar Patoc as a surrogate, aiming to investigate its possible activity in bacterial virulence. Heterologous expression of LIC11711 was performed using the pMaOri vector under regulation of the lipL32 promoter. The protein was found mainly on the leptospiral outer surface, confirming its location. The lipL32 promoter enhanced the expression of LIC11711 in L. biflexa compared to the pathogenic strain, indicating that this strategy may be used to overexpress low-copy proteins. The presence of LIC11711 enhanced the capacity of L. biflexa to adhere to laminin (Lam) and plasminogen (Plg)/plasmin (Pla) in vitro, suggesting the involvement of this protein in bacterial pathogenesis. We show for the first time that the expression of LIC11711 protein of L. interrogans confers a virulence-associated phenotype on L. biflexa, pointing out possible mechanisms used by pathogenic leptospires.
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Narkkul U, Thaipadungpanit J, Srilohasin P, Singkhaimuk P, Thongdee M, Chaiwattanarungruengpaisan S, Krairojananan P, Pan-ngum W. Optimization of Culture Protocols to Isolate Leptospira spp. from Environmental Water, Field Investigation, and Identification of Factors Associated with the Presence of Leptospira spp. in the Environment. Trop Med Infect Dis 2020; 5:tropicalmed5020094. [PMID: 32517121 PMCID: PMC7345561 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed5020094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The successful culture of Leptospira spp. from the environment is challenging. Here, we optimized the isolation of Leptospira spp. from water samples spiked with different species and initial concentrations of this organism. The time periods between water sampling and the isolation process were varied (0, 2, and 4 weeks). Bacterial cultures were observed under a microscope, and cultures were graded for cell density, weekly, for 12 weeks. Most pathogenic Leptospira spp. were difficult to culture under all conditions. All conditions of water samples spiked with novel species of Leptospira subclade P1 were culture positive within 2 weeks. For Leptospira subclade P2, storing samples for 2 weeks prior to isolation resulted in more successful isolation compared with isolation after other storage conditions. For subclade S1, all samples with initial bacterial concentrations of more than 103 colonies/mL, under all storage conditions, were successfully cultured. These results suggest that storing contaminated water samples for 2 to 4 weeks in the dark at an ambient temperature prior to culturing can improve the isolation of Leptospira spp. from the samples. We implemented this protocol and collected water samples from natural sources accessed by both humans and animals. Leptospira spp. was identified in 32% (35/109) of water samples. The animal species using a water source influenced the likelihood of water samples being contaminated with Leptospira spp. Cultures of Leptospira spp. from environmental samples can provide useful information for understanding the complex interactions between humans, animals and the environment in the transmission of leptospirosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udomsak Narkkul
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand;
| | - Janjira Thaipadungpanit
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (J.T.); (P.S.); (P.S.)
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Prapaporn Srilohasin
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (J.T.); (P.S.); (P.S.)
- Office for Research and Development, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
| | - Preeraya Singkhaimuk
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (J.T.); (P.S.); (P.S.)
| | - Metawee Thongdee
- The Monitoring and Surveillance Center for Zoonotic Diseases in Wildlife and Exotic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand; (M.T.); (S.C.)
| | - Somjit Chaiwattanarungruengpaisan
- The Monitoring and Surveillance Center for Zoonotic Diseases in Wildlife and Exotic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand; (M.T.); (S.C.)
| | - Panadda Krairojananan
- Department of Entomology, Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Rajvithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand;
| | - Wirichada Pan-ngum
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand;
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (J.T.); (P.S.); (P.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +66-2306-9188
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