Spatial distribution of serologically reactive sheep to Leptospira spp. in the northeast region of Brazil

Considering the importance of leptospirosis in sheep farming and public health and the significance of identifying which serogroups circulate in sheep within each region, the objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence and spatial distribution of the most frequent serogroups causing infection by Leptospira sp. in ovine herds in the Northeast region of Brazil. Blood samples were collected from 4197 sheep from 229 herds in 7 Northeastern States. Sera were analyzed via microscopic agglutination test (MAT). The frequency of seroreactive sheep for Leptospira sp. was 14.06%. The states of Alagoas, Ceará, Paraíba, Piauí, Rio Grande do Norte, and Sergipe, located in the Caatinga biome, had the highest frequencies of serologically reactive sheep, and Maranhão, in the Cerrado biome, had the lowest frequency. The most frequent serogroups were Autumnalis (19.49%), Australis (15.76%) and Serjoe (14.41%). In the states of Ceará, Paraíba, Rio Grande do Norte, and Sergipe, 100% of their municipalities had at least one seroreactive animal. The highest frequencies of seropositive animals were found in the municipalities of União (50%), Passagem (49.06%), Canindé (48.89%), Igaci (28.95%), Gararu (31.2%), Pirapemas (17.5%), and Angicos (16%) located in the states of Piauí, Paraíba, Ceará, Alagoas, Sergipe, Maranhão and Rio Grande do Norte, respectively. The animal-level prevalence (14.06%) obtained in the present study is significant, especially considering the rustic nature of the species and the adverse conditions of the region for the infectious agent. In semi-arid conditions, it has been suggested that perhaps sheep do not seroconvert detectable titers on MAT with a cut-off point of 1:100. It is important to highlight that the ovine population in the Northeast region of Brazil is composed of mixed animals, which have been considered more resistant to infection by Leptospira spp. Also, environmental factors hostile to the survival of the infectious agent in the studied region should be taken into consideration, since they may have influenced the seropositive animal-level prevalence. A noteworthy variation was observed in agglutinin titers, which ranged from 100 to 1,600, where 80.2% of the positive samples had titers ≤ 200. It is important to highlight that more elevated titers (≥ 400) were obtained in all seven states, which may suggest an acute infection caused by a non-adapted serovar, indicating that preventive and control measures focused on possible infection sources for sheep should be adopted. Although some states showed the same serogroups as the most frequent, a variety of serogroups was observed in municipalities, which may indicate different sources of infection, whether interspecies, intraspecies, or via alternative routes of transmission in semi-arid conditions, such as venereal. This indicates that even though sheep are more resistant to infection, they become exposed due to the environment or management conditions. As such, identification, isolation, and treatment of the affected animals are alternative measures recommended for prevention and control of leptospirosis in sheep in the semi-arid region. It is evident that despite the lack of rain observed in the last decade in the Northeast region of Brazil, which prevented the formation of favorable environments for the presence of Leptospira, the infectious agent remains among the sheep, as well as other production and wild animals in the region. Some factors may be contributing to this scenario, such as the fact that sheep farming in the region is = characterized mainly by subsistence systems, where veterinary assistance and adequate sanitary management are absent, thus increasing the possibility of contact with Leptospira. (AU)

Leptospira interrogans infection in tegu lizard (Tupinambis merianae), Brazil / Infecção por Leptospira interrogans em lagarto teiú (Tupinambis merianae), Brasil

We used 12 tegu lizards (Tupinambis merianae) from northeastern Brazil, and we reported nine (75%) Leptospira sp. PCR-positive animals and six (50%) seropositive. Leptospira sp. DNA sequencing revealed 99% similarity with L. interrogans. Our findings indicated that this species may play a role in the transmission of human leptospirosis.(AU)

Foram utilizados 12 lagartos Teiús (Tupinambis merianae) do Nordeste do Brasil. Encontramos nove animais positivos (75%) para Leptospira sp. na PCR e seis (50%) soropositivos. O sequenciamento de DNA de Leptospira sp. revelou 99% de semelhança com L. interrogans. Os resultados indicam que esta espécie pode desempenhar um papel importante na transmissão da leptospirose humana.(AU)

High proportion of cattle and sheep seropositive and renal carriers of Leptospira sp. under semiarid conditions / Alta proporção de bovinos e ovinos soropositivos e portadores renais de Leptospira sp. em condições semiáridas

The aims of this study were to perform serological and molecular detection of Leptospira sp. infection in cattle and sheep under semiarid conditions. Based on a preliminary study performed in our research group, we selected six rural properties showing a positivity ≥ 60% for Sejroe serogroup with titer ≥ 200 measured in serological tests from cattle. In the present study, blood and urine samples were collected from 99 females of reproductive age (51 cattle and 48 sheep) for serological diagnosis, molecular detection and Leptospira sp. attempt to strain recovery. Of the 99 analyzed animals 38.4% (38/99) were positively reactive at the serological tests. Of them, 49% (25/51) were cattle and 27.1% (13/48) sheep. The serogroups detected in cattle were Sejroe (36.8%), Hebdomadis (26.3%), Australis (10.5%), Djasiman (10.5%), Ballum (5.3%), Pomona (5.3%), and Cynopteri (5.3%) with titers of 100–800. In sheep, the reactive serogroups were Australis (27.3%), Ballum (27.3%), Djasiman (18.1%), Tarassovi (9.1%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (9.1%), and Cynopteri (9.1%) with titers of 100–400. Leptospiral DNA was detected in nine urine samples, including five cattle and four sheep. Property 1 showed the highest serological positivity frequencies for both cattle (70.6%) and sheep (70.6%). Similarly, the highest frequency of DNA detection was also found (eight samples, 89%). In this property, we observed the existence of consorted rearing of cattle and sheep with close coexistence between these species. In semiarid conditions, transmission among animals of the same species seems to be the main form of Leptospira sp. dissemination in cattle and sheep herds. However, the contribution of other domestic and wild animals cannot be discarded. The practice of consorted rearing of cattle and sheep and their close coexistence may facilitate the spread of the pathogen in rural properties.(AU)

Os objetivos deste estudo foram realizar detecção sorológica e molecular da infecção por Leptospira sp. em bovinos e ovinos em condições semiáridas. Com base em estudo preliminar realizado em nosso grupo de pesquisa, foram selecionadas seis propriedades rurais com soropositividade ≥ 60% para o sorogrupo Sejroe com título ≥ 200 em bovinos. No presente estudo, amostras de sangue e urina foram coletadas de 99 fêmeas em idade reprodutiva (51 bovinos e 48 ovinos) para diagnóstico sorológico, detecção molecular e tentativa de recuperação de estirpesde Leptospira sp. Dos 99 animais analisados, 38,4% (38/99) foram sororeativos nos testes sorológicos. Destes, 49% (25/51) eram bovinos e 27,1% (13/48) ovinos. Os sorogrupos detectados em bovinos foram Sejroe (36,8%), Hebdomadis (26,3%), Australis (10,5%), Djasiman (10,5%), Ballum (5,3%), Pomona (5,3%) e Cynopteri (5,3%) com títulos de 100 a 800. Nos ovinos, os sorogrupos reativos foram Australis (27,3%), Ballum (27,3%), Djasiman (18,1%), Tarassovi (9,1%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (9,1%) e Cynopteri (9,1%) com títulos de 100-400. O DNA leptospiral foi detectado em nove amostras de urina, incluindo cinco bovinos e quatro ovinos. A propriedade 1 apresentou as maiores frequências de positividade sorológica para bovinos (70,6%) e ovinos (70,6%). Da mesma forma, a maior frequência de detecção de DNA também foi encontrada (oito amostras, 89%). Nesta propriedade observou-se a existência de criação consorciada de bovinos e ovinos com estreita convivência entre estas espécies. Em condições semiáridas, a transmissão entre animais da mesma espécie parece ser a principal forma de disseminação de Leptospira sp. em rebanhos bovinos e ovinos. No entanto, a contribuição de outros animais domésticos e selvagens não pode ser descartada. A prática de criação consorciada de bovinos e ovinos e sua estreita convivência podem facilitar a disseminação do patógeno em propriedades rurais.(AU)

High proportion of cattle and sheep seropositive and renal carriers of Leptospira sp. under semiarid conditions / Alta proporção de bovinos e ovinos soropositivos e portadores renais de Leptospira sp. em condições semiáridas

The aims of this study were to perform serological and molecular detection of Leptospira sp. infection in cattle and sheep under semiarid conditions. Based on a preliminary study performed in our research group, we selected six rural properties showing a positivity ≥ 60% for Sejroe serogroup with titer ≥ 200 measured in serological tests from cattle. In the present study, blood and urine samples were collected from 99 females of reproductive age (51 cattle and 48 sheep) for serological diagnosis, molecular detection and Leptospira sp. attempt to strain recovery. Of the 99 analyzed animals 38.4% (38/99) were positively reactive at the serological tests. Of them, 49% (25/51) were cattle and 27.1% (13/48) sheep. The serogroups detected in cattle were Sejroe (36.8%), Hebdomadis (26.3%), Australis (10.5%), Djasiman (10.5%), Ballum (5.3%), Pomona (5.3%), and Cynopteri (5.3%) with titers of 100­800. In sheep, the reactive serogroups were Australis (27.3%), Ballum (27.3%), Djasiman (18.1%), Tarassovi (9.1%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (9.1%), and Cynopteri (9.1%) with titers of 100­400.Leptospiral DNA was detected in nine urine samples, including five cattle and four sheep. Property 1 showed the highest serological positivity frequencies for both cattle (70.6%) and sheep (70.6%). Similarly, the highest frequency of DNA detection was also found (eight samples, 89%). In this property, we observed the existence of consorted rearing of cattle and sheep with close coexistence between these species. In semiarid conditions, transmission among animals of the same species seems to be the main form of Leptospira sp. dissemination in cattle and sheep herds. However, the contribution of other domestic and wild animals cannot be discarded. The practice of consorted rearing of cattle and sheep and their close coexistence may facilitate the spread of the pathogen in rural properties.

Os objetivos deste estudo foram realizar detecção sorológica e molecular da infecção por Leptospira sp. em bovinos e ovinos em condições semiáridas. Com base em estudo preliminar realizado em nosso grupo de pesquisa, foram selecionadas seis propriedades rurais com soropositividade ≥ 60% para o sorogrupo Sejroe com título ≥ 200 em bovinos. No presente estudo, amostras de sangue e urina foram coletadas de 99 fêmeas em idade reprodutiva (51 bovinos e 48 ovinos) para diagnóstico sorológico, detecção molecular e tentativa de recuperação de estirpesde Leptospira sp. Dos 99 animais analisados, 38,4% (38/99) foram sororeativos nos testes sorológicos. Destes, 49% (25/51) eram bovinos e 27,1% (13/48) ovinos. Os sorogrupos detectados em bovinos foram Sejroe (36,8%), Hebdomadis (26,3%), Australis (10,5%), Djasiman (10,5%), Ballum (5,3%), Pomona (5,3%) e Cynopteri (5,3%) com títulos de 100 a 800. Nos ovinos, os sorogrupos reativos foram Australis (27,3%), Ballum (27,3%), Djasiman (18,1%), Tarassovi (9,1%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (9,1%) e Cynopteri (9,1%) com títulos de 100-400. O DNA leptospiral foi detectado em nove amostras de urina, incluindo cinco bovinos e quatro ovinos. A propriedade 1 apresentou as maiores frequências de positividade sorológica para bovinos (70,6%) e ovinos (70,6%). Da mesma forma, a maior frequência de detecção de DNA também foi encontrada (oito amostras, 89%). Nesta propriedade observou-se a existência de criação consorciada de bovinos e ovinos com estreita convivência entre estas espécies. Em condições semiáridas, a transmissão entre animais da mesma espécie parece ser a principal forma de disseminação de Leptospira sp. em rebanhos bovinos e ovinos. No entanto, a contribuição de outros animais domésticos e selvagens não pode ser descartada. A prática de criação consorciada de bovinos e ovinos e sua estreita convivência podem facilitar a disseminação do patógeno em propriedades rurais.

High proportion of cattle and sheep seropositive and renal carriers of Leptospira sp. under semiarid conditions / Alta proporção de bovinos e ovinos soropositivos e portadores renais de Leptospira sp. em condições semiáridas

The aims of this study were to perform serological and molecular detection of Leptospira sp. infection in cattle and sheep under semiarid conditions. Based on a preliminary study performed in our research group, we selected six rural properties showing a positivity ≥ 60% for Sejroe serogroup with titer ≥ 200 measured in serological tests from cattle. In the present study, blood and urine samples were collected from 99 females of reproductive age (51 cattle and 48 sheep) for serological diagnosis, molecular detection and Leptospira sp. attempt to strain recovery. Of the 99 analyzed animals 38.4% (38/99) were positively reactive at the serological tests. Of them, 49% (25/51) were cattle and 27.1% (13/48) sheep. The serogroups detected in cattle were Sejroe (36.8%), Hebdomadis (26.3%), Australis (10.5%), Djasiman (10.5%), Ballum (5.3%), Pomona (5.3%), and Cynopteri (5.3%) with titers of 100–800. In sheep, the reactive serogroups were Australis (27.3%), Ballum (27.3%), Djasiman (18.1%), Tarassovi (9.1%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (9.1%), and Cynopteri (9.1%) with titers of 100–400. Leptospiral DNA was detected in nine urine samples, including five cattle and four sheep. Property 1 showed the highest serological positivity frequencies for both cattle (70.6%) and sheep (70.6%). Similarly, the highest frequency of DNA detection was also found (eight samples, 89%). In this property, we observed the existence of consorted rearing of cattle and sheep with close coexistence between these species. In semiarid conditions, transmission among animals of the same species seems to be the main form of Leptospira sp. dissemination in cattle and sheep herds. However, the contribution of other domestic and wild animals cannot be discarded. The practice of consorted rearing of cattle and sheep and their close coexistence may facilitate the spread of the pathogen in rural properties.

Os objetivos deste estudo foram realizar detecção sorológica e molecular da infecção por Leptospira sp. em bovinos e ovinos em condições semiáridas. Com base em estudo preliminar realizado em nosso grupo de pesquisa, foram selecionadas seis propriedades rurais com soropositividade ≥ 60% para o sorogrupo Sejroe com título ≥ 200 em bovinos. No presente estudo, amostras de sangue e urina foram coletadas de 99 fêmeas em idade reprodutiva (51 bovinos e 48 ovinos) para diagnóstico sorológico, detecção molecular e tentativa de recuperação de estirpesde Leptospira sp. Dos 99 animais analisados, 38,4% (38/99) foram sororeativos nos testes sorológicos. Destes, 49% (25/51) eram bovinos e 27,1% (13/48) ovinos. Os sorogrupos detectados em bovinos foram Sejroe (36,8%), Hebdomadis (26,3%), Australis (10,5%), Djasiman (10,5%), Ballum (5,3%), Pomona (5,3%) e Cynopteri (5,3%) com títulos de 100 a 800. Nos ovinos, os sorogrupos reativos foram Australis (27,3%), Ballum (27,3%), Djasiman (18,1%), Tarassovi (9,1%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (9,1%) e Cynopteri (9,1%) com títulos de 100-400. O DNA leptospiral foi detectado em nove amostras de urina, incluindo cinco bovinos e quatro ovinos. A propriedade 1 apresentou as maiores frequências de positividade sorológica para bovinos (70,6%) e ovinos (70,6%). Da mesma forma, a maior frequência de detecção de DNA também foi encontrada (oito amostras, 89%). Nesta propriedade observou-se a existência de criação consorciada de bovinos e ovinos com estreita convivência entre estas espécies. Em condições semiáridas, a transmissão entre animais da mesma espécie parece ser a principal forma de disseminação de Leptospira sp. em rebanhos bovinos e ovinos. No entanto, a contribuição de outros animais domésticos e selvagens não pode ser descartada. A prática de criação consorciada de bovinos e ovinos e sua estreita convivência podem facilitar a disseminação do patógeno em propriedades rurais.

Seroepidemiological survey for leptospirosis in equines from semiarid region of Paraíba state, Northeastern Brazil / Inquérito soroepidemiológico para leptospirose em equídeos no semiárido da Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil

The aim of this survey was to determine epidemiological indicators for leptospirosis in equids from Paraíba state, Northeastern Brazil. A total of 138 equids were sampled from 58 rural properties, and for the diagnosis of leptospirosis it was used the Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT) with 22 serovars as antigens. A seropositivity found was 40.6% (56/138). The reactive serogroups were Australis (43%), Sejroe (16.3%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (14.3%), Grippotyphosa (10.2%), Canicola (6.1%), Tarassovi (4.1%), Pomona (2%), Ballum (2%) and Hebdomadis (2%). Animals over 36 months of age presented higher chance of get seropositive (odds ratio = 3.04; 95% CI = 1.23 7.56; P = 0.016). The results obtained in the present work point to the high occurrence of seropositive equids for Leptospira sp. in the semiarid of Paraíba, Northeastern Brazil. As it is the first report of seropositive equidae in Paraíba, other surveys should be conducted in the region aiming to isolate and identify the agent for the determination of the current infection in the animals.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar indicadores epidemiológicos da leptospirose em equídeos do estado da Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. Foram amostrados 138 equídeos provenientes de 58 propriedades rurais, e para o diagnóstico da leptospirose foi utilizado o teste de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (SAM), utilizando uma bateria com 22 sorovares como antígenos. A sororreatividade encontrada foi de 40,6% (56/138). Os sorogrupos reatores foram Australis (43%), Sejroe (16,3%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (14,3%), Grippotyphosa (10,2%), Canicola (6,1%), Tarassovi (4,1%), Pomona (2%), Ballum (2%) e Hebdomadis (2%). Animais com idade acima de 36 meses apresentaram maior chance de serem sororreativos (odds ratio = 3,04; IC 95% = 1,23 7,56; P = 0,016). Os resultados obtidos no presente trabalho apontam para a elevada ocorrência de equídeos sororreagentes para Leptospira sp. no semiárido paraibano, Nordeste do Brasil. Sendo este o primeiro relato de equídeos sororreagentes na Paraíba, outros estudos devem ser conduzidos na região com o objetivo de isolar e identificar o agente para a determinação da infecção corrente nos animais.(AU)

Seroepidemiological survey for leptospirosis in equines from semiarid region of Paraíba state, Northeastern Brazil / Inquérito soroepidemiológico para leptospirose em equídeos no semiárido da Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil

The aim of this survey was to determine epidemiological indicators for leptospirosis in equids from Paraíba state, Northeastern Brazil. A total of 138 equids were sampled from 58 rural properties, and for the diagnosis of leptospirosis it was used the Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT) with 22 serovars as antigens. A seropositivity found was 40.6% (56/138). The reactive serogroups were Australis (43%), Sejroe (16.3%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (14.3%), Grippotyphosa (10.2%), Canicola (6.1%), Tarassovi (4.1%), Pomona (2%), Ballum (2%) and Hebdomadis (2%). Animals over 36 months of age presented higher chance of get seropositive (odds ratio = 3.04; 95% CI = 1.23 7.56; P = 0.016). The results obtained in the present work point to the high occurrence of seropositive equids for Leptospira sp. in the semiarid of Paraíba, Northeastern Brazil. As it is the first report of seropositive equidae in Paraíba, other surveys should be conducted in the region aiming to isolate and identify the agent for the determination of the current infection in the animals.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar indicadores epidemiológicos da leptospirose em equídeos do estado da Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. Foram amostrados 138 equídeos provenientes de 58 propriedades rurais, e para o diagnóstico da leptospirose foi utilizado o teste de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (SAM), utilizando uma bateria com 22 sorovares como antígenos. A sororreatividade encontrada foi de 40,6% (56/138). Os sorogrupos reatores foram Australis (43%), Sejroe (16,3%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (14,3%), Grippotyphosa (10,2%), Canicola (6,1%), Tarassovi (4,1%), Pomona (2%), Ballum (2%) e Hebdomadis (2%). Animais com idade acima de 36 meses apresentaram maior chance de serem sororreativos (odds ratio = 3,04; IC 95% = 1,23 7,56; P = 0,016). Os resultados obtidos no presente trabalho apontam para a elevada ocorrência de equídeos sororreagentes para Leptospira sp. no semiárido paraibano, Nordeste do Brasil. Sendo este o primeiro relato de equídeos sororreagentes na Paraíba, outros estudos devem ser conduzidos na região com o objetivo de isolar e identificar o agente para a determinação da infecção corrente nos animais.

Soropositividade para Leptospira sp. e sorogrupos predominantes em cães do Pantanal Brasileiro / Seropositivity for Leptospira sp. and predominant serogroups in dogs from the Brazilian Pantanal

Em face à grande importância que a leptospirose possui no contexto sanitário mundial, tanto no aspecto humano como animal, este estudo teve por objetivo realizar a pesquisa de anticorpos anti-Leptospira sp. pela técnica de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (SAM) em 429 amostras de soros de cães provenientes de quatro municípios (Poconé/MT, Santo Antônio de Leverger/MT, Barão de Melgaço/MT e Corumbá/MS) localizados na região do Pantanal Brasileiro, bem como foram verificadas possíveis associações entre os resultados dos exames sorológicos e respostas aos questionários epidemiológicos aplicados aos proprietários. Do total de cães avaliados pela SAM (título ≥100), verificou-se que 34 (7,93%; IC 95%: 5,63%-11,00%) cães tinham anticorpos anti-Leptospira sp. Os títulos encontrados variaram entre 100 e 1600 e todos os municípios analisados tinham cães sororreagentes ao agente pesquisado. O sorogrupo reator mais frequente foi o Icterohaemorrhagiae, seguido pelo Australis. Por outro lado, foram observadas menores proporções de cães reagentes aos sorogrupos Tarassovi, Hebdomadis, Autumnalis e Grippotyphosa. As variáveis associadas com a ocorrência de leptospirose foram habitat rural (P<0,01) e área alagável (P=0,01). Estes resultados demonstram que os cães da região pantaneira tiveram contato com agentes do gênero Leptospira, o que representa uma informação relevante para a saúde pública local devido à importância zoonótica da doença.

Given the great importance that leptospirosis has the global health context, both in human and animal aspect, this study aimed to search for antibodies anti-Leptospira sp. by the technique of microscopic agglutination test (MAT) in 429 samples of sera from dogs from four municipalities (Poconé/MT, Santo Antônio de Leverger/MT, Barão de Melgaço/MT and Corumbá/MS) located in the Brazilian Pantanal region, in order for determine associations between the results of the serological tests and answers to epidemiological questionnaires applied to owners. Of the total dogs evaluated by MAT (titer ≥100), it was verified that 34 (7.93%, 95% CI: 5.63% -11.00%) dogs had antibodies against Leptospira sp. The titers found ranged from 100 to 1600 and all municipalities analyzed had seroreactive dogs for the investigated agent. The most frequent serogroup reactor was Icterohaemorrhagiae, followed by Australis. On the other hand, smaller proportions of reactive dogs were observed for serogroups Tarassovi, Hebdomadis, Autumnalis and Grippotyphosa. The variables associated with the occurrence of leptospirosis were rural habitat (P<0.01) and flooded area (P=0.01). These results demonstrate that dogs from the Pantanal region had contact with agents of the genus Leptospira, which represents information relevant to local public health due to the zoonotic importance of the disease.

Soropositividade para Leptospira sp. e sorogrupos predominantes em cães do Pantanal Brasileiro / Seropositivity for Leptospira sp. and predominant serogroups in dogs from the Brazilian Pantanal

Em face à grande importância que a leptospirose possui no contexto sanitário mundial, tanto no aspecto humano como animal, este estudo teve por objetivo realizar a pesquisa de anticorpos anti-Leptospira sp. pela técnica de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (SAM) em 429 amostras de soros de cães provenientes de quatro municípios (Poconé/MT, Santo Antônio de Leverger/MT, Barão de Melgaço/MT e Corumbá/MS) localizados na região do Pantanal Brasileiro, bem como foram verificadas possíveis associações entre os resultados dos exames sorológicos e respostas aos questionários epidemiológicos aplicados aos proprietários. Do total de cães avaliados pela SAM (título 100), verificou-se que 34 (7,93%; IC 95%: 5,63%-11,00%) cães tinham anticorpos antiLeptospira sp. Os títulos encontrados variaram entre 100 e 1600 e todos os municípios analisados tinham cães sororreagentes ao agente pesquisado. O sorogrupo reator mais frequente foi o Icterohaemorrhagiae, seguido pelo Australis. Por outro lado, foram observadas menores proporções de cães reagentes aos sorogrupos Tarassovi, Hebdomadis, Autumnalis e Grippotyphosa. As variáveis associadas com a ocorrência de leptospirose foram habitat rural (P 0,01) e área alagável (P=0,01).(AU)

Given the great importance that leptospirosis has the global health context, both in human and animal aspect, this study aimed tosearch for antibodies anti-Leptospira sp. by the technique of microscopic agglutination test (MAT) in 429 samples of sera from dogsfrom four municipalities (Poconé/MT, Santo Antônio de Leverger/MT, Barão de Melgaço/MT and Corumbá/MS) located in the BrazilianPantanal region, in order for determine associations between the results of the serological tests and answers to epidemiologicalquestionnaires applied to owners. Of the total dogs evaluated by MAT (titer ≥100), it was verified that 34 (7.93%, 95% CI: 5.63%-11.00%) dogs had antibodies against Leptospira sp. The titers found ranged from 100 to 1600 and all municipalities analyzed hadseroreactive dogs for the investigated agent. The most frequent serogroup reactor was Icterohaemorrhagiae, followed by Australis.On the other hand, smaller proportions of reactive dogs were observed for serogroups Tarassovi, Hebdomadis, Autumnalis andGrippotyphosa. The variables associated with the occurrence of leptospirosis were rural habitat (P<0.01) and flooded area (P=0.01).These results demonstrate that dogs from the Pantanal region had contact with agents of the genus Leptospira, which representsinformation relevant to local public health due to the zoonotic importance of the disease.(AU)

Soropositividade para Leptospira sp. e sorogrupos predominantes em cães do Pantanal Brasileiro / Seropositivity for Leptospira sp. and predominant serogroups in dogs from the Brazilian Pantanal

Em face à grande importância que a leptospirose possui no contexto sanitário mundial, tanto no aspecto humano como animal, este estudo teve por objetivo realizar a pesquisa de anticorpos anti-Leptospira sp. pela técnica de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (SAM) em 429 amostras de soros de cães provenientes de quatro municípios (Poconé/MT, Santo Antônio de Leverger/MT, Barão de Melgaço/MT e Corumbá/MS) localizados na região do Pantanal Brasileiro, bem como foram verificadas possíveis associações entre os resultados dos exames sorológicos e respostas aos questionários epidemiológicos aplicados aos proprietários. Do total de cães avaliados pela SAM (título 100), verificou-se que 34 (7,93%; IC 95%: 5,63%-11,00%) cães tinham anticorpos antiLeptospira sp. Os títulos encontrados variaram entre 100 e 1600 e todos os municípios analisados tinham cães sororreagentes ao agente pesquisado. O sorogrupo reator mais frequente foi o Icterohaemorrhagiae, seguido pelo Australis. Por outro lado, foram observadas menores proporções de cães reagentes aos sorogrupos Tarassovi, Hebdomadis, Autumnalis e Grippotyphosa. As variáveis associadas com a ocorrência de leptospirose foram habitat rural (P 0,01) e área alagável (P=0,01).

Given the great importance that leptospirosis has the global health context, both in human and animal aspect, this study aimed tosearch for antibodies anti-Leptospira sp. by the technique of microscopic agglutination test (MAT) in 429 samples of sera from dogsfrom four municipalities (Poconé/MT, Santo Antônio de Leverger/MT, Barão de Melgaço/MT and Corumbá/MS) located in the BrazilianPantanal region, in order for determine associations between the results of the serological tests and answers to epidemiologicalquestionnaires applied to owners. Of the total dogs evaluated by MAT (titer ≥100), it was verified that 34 (7.93%, 95% CI: 5.63%-11.00%) dogs had antibodies against Leptospira sp. The titers found ranged from 100 to 1600 and all municipalities analyzed hadseroreactive dogs for the investigated agent. The most frequent serogroup reactor was Icterohaemorrhagiae, followed by Australis.On the other hand, smaller proportions of reactive dogs were observed for serogroups Tarassovi, Hebdomadis, Autumnalis andGrippotyphosa. The variables associated with the occurrence of leptospirosis were rural habitat (P<0.01) and flooded area (P=0.01).These results demonstrate that dogs from the Pantanal region had contact with agents of the genus Leptospira, which representsinformation relevant to local public health due to the zoonotic importance of the disease.

Seroprevalence and predominant serogroups of Leptospira sp. in serological tests of ruminants in northeastern Brazil / Soroprevalência e sorogrupos de Leptospira sp. predominantes em exames sorológicos de ruminantes do Nordeste do Brasil

The objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of leptospirosis and the predominant serogroups in serological tests of ruminants performed at the Transmissible Diseases Laboratory of the Federal University of Campina Grande, Patos, Paraíba, northeastern Brazil, between 2010 and 2017. This research included the records of serological tests for leptospirosis from 5594 animals, including 1527 cattle, 1761 goats, 2170 sheep, and 136 buffaloes from four Brazilian states (Paraíba, Pernambuco, Maranhão, and Rio Grande do Norte). Of the 5594 serum samples, 662 were serologically positive, corresponding to a frequency of 11.8%. Serjoe (30.6%), Autumnalis (13.6%), and Icterohaemorrhagiae (11.3%) were the most frequent subgroups among all species. The individual frequencies in cattle, goats, sheep, and buffaloes were 20% (306/1527), 8.3% (147/1761), 7.9% (171/2170), and 27.9% (38/136), respectively, with titers ranging from 1:100 to 1:3200. The most frequent serogroups according to animal species were as follows: Serjoe predominated in cattle (62%), followed by Icterohaemorrhagiae (12.5%) and Tarassovi (6.6%); Autumnalis was the most frequent in goats and sheep (29.4% and 26.9%, respectively), followed by Seramanga (12.5%) in goats and Icterohaemmorrhagiae (13.5%) in sheep; and Australis predominated in buffaloes (39.5%), followed by Pomona (31.6%) and Canicola (21.1%). Leptospira sp. infection, determined by serology, is widespread in ruminants (cattle, goats, sheep, and buffaloes) in northeastern Brazil, suggesting the existence of alternative transmission routes that are less dependent on environmental factors. Identification of the most frequent serogroups highlights the need to improve sanitary conditions, and implement efficient and targeted control measures directed at the primary infection sources.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a soropositividade para leptospirose e os sorogrupos predominantes nos testes sorológicos realizados no Laboratório de Doenças Transmissíveis (LDT) da Universidade Federal de Campina Grande (UFCG), Patos, Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil, em bovinos, caprinos, ovinos e bubalinos no período de 2010 a 2017. Foram computados os registros dos exames sorológicos para leptospirose de 5.594 animais, que incluíram 1.527 bovinos, 1.761 caprinos, 2.170 ovinos e 136 bubalinos, provenientes de quatro estados brasileiros (Paraíba, Pernambuco, Maranhão e Rio Grande do Norte). Das 5.594 amostras de soro de bovinos, caprinos, ovinos e bubalinos, 662 amostras foram positivas no teste sorológico, resultando em uma frequência de 11,8%. Serjoe (30,6%), Autumnalis (13,6%) e Icterohaemorrhagiae (11,3%) foram os sorogrupos mais frequentes para todas as espécies. As frequências individuais de bovinos, caprinos, ovinos e bubalinos foram de 20% (306/1.527), 8,3% (147/1.761), 7,9% (171/2.170), e 27,9% (38/136), respectivamente, com títulos variando de 1:100 a 1:3200. Com relação aos sorogrupos mais frequentes por espécie animal, o Serjoe predominou em bovinos (62%), seguido de Icterohaemorrhagiae (12,5%) e Tarassovi (6,6%); Autumnalis foi o mais frequente em caprinos e ovinos (29,4% e 26,9%, respectivamente), seguido de Seramanga (12,5%) em caprinos e Icterohaemmorrhagiae (13,5%) em ovinos; Australis predominou nos bubalinos (39,5%), seguido de Pomona (31,6%) e Canicola (21,1%)...(AU)

Seroprevalence and predominant serogroups of Leptospira sp. in serological tests of ruminants in northeastern Brazil / Soroprevalência e sorogrupos de Leptospira sp. predominantes em exames sorológicos de ruminantes do Nordeste do Brasil

The objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of leptospirosis and the predominant serogroups in serological tests of ruminants performed at the Transmissible Diseases Laboratory of the Federal University of Campina Grande, Patos, Paraíba, northeastern Brazil, between 2010 and 2017. This research included the records of serological tests for leptospirosis from 5594 animals, including 1527 cattle, 1761 goats, 2170 sheep, and 136 buffaloes from four Brazilian states (Paraíba, Pernambuco, Maranhão, and Rio Grande do Norte). Of the 5594 serum samples, 662 were serologically positive, corresponding to a frequency of 11.8%. Serjoe (30.6%), Autumnalis (13.6%), and Icterohaemorrhagiae (11.3%) were the most frequent subgroups among all species. The individual frequencies in cattle, goats, sheep, and buffaloes were 20% (306/1527), 8.3% (147/1761), 7.9% (171/2170), and 27.9% (38/136), respectively, with titers ranging from 1:100 to 1:3200. The most frequent serogroups according to animal species were as follows: Serjoe predominated in cattle (62%), followed by Icterohaemorrhagiae (12.5%) and Tarassovi (6.6%); Autumnalis was the most frequent in goats and sheep (29.4% and 26.9%, respectively), followed by Seramanga (12.5%) in goats and Icterohaemmorrhagiae (13.5%) in sheep; and Australis predominated in buffaloes (39.5%), followed by Pomona (31.6%) and Canicola (21.1%). Leptospira sp. infection, determined by serology, is widespread in ruminants (cattle, goats, sheep, and buffaloes) in northeastern Brazil, suggesting the existence of alternative transmission routes that are less dependent on environmental factors. Identification of the most frequent serogroups highlights the need to improve sanitary conditions, and implement efficient and targeted control measures directed at the primary infection sources.

O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a soropositividade para leptospirose e os sorogrupos predominantes nos testes sorológicos realizados no Laboratório de Doenças Transmissíveis (LDT) da Universidade Federal de Campina Grande (UFCG), Patos, Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil, em bovinos, caprinos, ovinos e bubalinos no período de 2010 a 2017. Foram computados os registros dos exames sorológicos para leptospirose de 5.594 animais, que incluíram 1.527 bovinos, 1.761 caprinos, 2.170 ovinos e 136 bubalinos, provenientes de quatro estados brasileiros (Paraíba, Pernambuco, Maranhão e Rio Grande do Norte). Das 5.594 amostras de soro de bovinos, caprinos, ovinos e bubalinos, 662 amostras foram positivas no teste sorológico, resultando em uma frequência de 11,8%. Serjoe (30,6%), Autumnalis (13,6%) e Icterohaemorrhagiae (11,3%) foram os sorogrupos mais frequentes para todas as espécies. As frequências individuais de bovinos, caprinos, ovinos e bubalinos foram de 20% (306/1.527), 8,3% (147/1.761), 7,9% (171/2.170), e 27,9% (38/136), respectivamente, com títulos variando de 1:100 a 1:3200. Com relação aos sorogrupos mais frequentes por espécie animal, o Serjoe predominou em bovinos (62%), seguido de Icterohaemorrhagiae (12,5%) e Tarassovi (6,6%); Autumnalis foi o mais frequente em caprinos e ovinos (29,4% e 26,9%, respectivamente), seguido de Seramanga (12,5%) em caprinos e Icterohaemmorrhagiae (13,5%) em ovinos; Australis predominou nos bubalinos (39,5%), seguido de Pomona (31,6%) e Canicola (21,1%)...

Spatial distribution of equine seroreagent to Leptospira spp. in Northeastern Brazil / Distribuição espacial de equinos sororreagentes à Leptospira spp. no Nordeste do Brasil

Considering the importance of leptospirosis in both equine husbandry and public health, as well as the relevance of knowledge of current serogroup and the small number of studies addressing this disease in equines in Northeastern Brazil, the present study performed a serological survey of Leptospira spp. in a serum bank of 1,267 equines originating from 177 municipalities, located in four states in Northeastern Brazil: Ceará, Rio Grande do Norte, Paraíba and Pernambuco. The microscopic agglutination test (MAT) was used for diagnosis of leptospirosis using 24 serovars as antigens. The frequency of reagent equines was 29.7% (376/1,267), and 68.9% (122/177) of municipalities had at least one positive reaction. The serogroups reagent were Australis (37.2%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (29.3%), Tarassovi (9.6%), Sejroe (5.8%), Pomona (5.3%), Grippotyphosa (4.5%), Pyrogenes (2.4%), Bataviae (1.9%), Ballum and Hebdomadis (1.3%), Mini (0.5%), Celledoni, Shermani, and Javanica (0.3% each). There were significant statistical differences regarding sex and age, with a higher frequency in females (P= 0.014), and in animals 6 years (P=0.001). We concluded that seropositivity to Leptospira spp. is high in equines in Northeastern Brazil, with a predominance of serologic reactions to the Australis serogroup in the border areas between the states, and the Icterohaemorrhagiae serogroup in coastal areas

Considerando a importância da leptospirose na equinocultura e na saúde pública, bem como a relevância do conhecimento dos sorogrupos circulantes e do pequeno número de estudos realizados sobre esta doença em equinos no Nordeste do Brasil, o presente trabalho foi delineado para realizar um inquérito sorológico de Leptospira spp. em um banco de soros de 1.267 equinos provenientes de 177 municípios distribuídos em quatro estados: Piaui, Ceará, Paraíba e Pernambuco, localizados na região Nordeste do Brasil. Os soros foram examinados com o teste de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (SAM), utilizando uma coleção de 24 sorovares como antígenos. A frequência de equinos reagentes foi de 29,7% (376 / 1.267) e 68,9% (122/177) dos municípios que tiveram pelo menos uma reação positiva. Os sorogrupos reagentes foram Australis (37,2%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (29,3%), Tarassovi (9,6%), Sejroe (5,8%), Pomona (5,3%), Grippotyphosa (4,5%), Pyrogenes (2,4%), Bataviae (1,9%), Ballum e Hebdomadis (1,3%), Mini (0,5%), Celledoni, Shermani e Javanica (0,3%). Houve diferenças estatisticamente significantes quanto ao sexo e idade, com maior frequência no sexo feminino (P = 0,014) e no animal com idade 6 anos (P = 0,001). Conclui-se que a infecção por Leptospira spp. tem ocorrência significativa em equídeos do Nordeste do Brasil, com predominância de reações para o sorogrupo Australis nas áreas de fronteira ent

Spatial distribution of equine seroreagent to Leptospira spp. in Northeastern Brazil / Distribuição espacial de equinos sororreagentes à Leptospira spp. no Nordeste do Brasil

Considering the importance of leptospirosis in both equine husbandry and public health, as well as the relevance of knowledge of current serogroup and the small number of studies addressing this disease in equines in Northeastern Brazil, the present study performed a serological survey of Leptospira spp. in a serum bank of 1,267 equines originating from 177 municipalities, located in four states in Northeastern Brazil: Ceará, Rio Grande do Norte, Paraíba and Pernambuco. The microscopic agglutination test (MAT) was used for diagnosis of leptospirosis using 24 serovars as antigens. The frequency of reagent equines was 29.7% (376/1,267), and 68.9% (122/177) of municipalities had at least one positive reaction. The serogroups reagent were Australis (37.2%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (29.3%), Tarassovi (9.6%), Sejroe (5.8%), Pomona (5.3%), Grippotyphosa (4.5%), Pyrogenes (2.4%), Bataviae (1.9%), Ballum and Hebdomadis (1.3%), Mini (0.5%), Celledoni, Shermani, and Javanica (0.3% each). There were significant statistical differences regarding sex and age, with a higher frequency in females (P= 0.014), and in animals 6 years (P=0.001). We concluded that seropositivity to Leptospira spp. is high in equines in Northeastern Brazil, with a predominance of serologic reactions to the Australis serogroup in the border areas between the states, and the Icterohaemorrhagiae serogroup in coastal areas

Considerando a importância da leptospirose na equinocultura e na saúde pública, bem como a relevância do conhecimento dos sorogrupos circulantes e do pequeno número de estudos realizados sobre esta doença em equinos no Nordeste do Brasil, o presente trabalho foi delineado para realizar um inquérito sorológico de Leptospira spp. em um banco de soros de 1.267 equinos provenientes de 177 municípios distribuídos em quatro estados: Piaui, Ceará, Paraíba e Pernambuco, localizados na região Nordeste do Brasil. Os soros foram examinados com o teste de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (SAM), utilizando uma coleção de 24 sorovares como antígenos. A frequência de equinos reagentes foi de 29,7% (376 / 1.267) e 68,9% (122/177) dos municípios que tiveram pelo menos uma reação positiva. Os sorogrupos reagentes foram Australis (37,2%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (29,3%), Tarassovi (9,6%), Sejroe (5,8%), Pomona (5,3%), Grippotyphosa (4,5%), Pyrogenes (2,4%), Bataviae (1,9%), Ballum e Hebdomadis (1,3%), Mini (0,5%), Celledoni, Shermani e Javanica (0,3%). Houve diferenças estatisticamente significantes quanto ao sexo e idade, com maior frequência no sexo feminino (P = 0,014) e no animal com idade 6 anos (P = 0,001). Conclui-se que a infecção por Leptospira spp. tem ocorrência significativa em equídeos do Nordeste do Brasil, com predominância de reações para o sorogrupo Australis nas áreas de fronteira ent

Prevalence and risk factors to Leptospira sp. infection in dogs attended at veterinary clinics in João Pessoa, Paraíba State, Northeastern Brazil / Prevalência e fatores de risco da infecção por Leptospira sp. em cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias em João Pessoa, Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil

This study investigated the prevalence and risk factors associated with Leptospira sp. in dogs attended at veterinary clinics in the city of João Pessoa, State of Paraíba, Northeast Brazil. A total of 384 blood samples from dogs from 34 veterinary clinics were used from April 2015 to May 2016. The serological Leptospira sp diagnosis was carried out through Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT), using a collection of 20 pathogenic antigens and adopting a 1:100 dilution as cutoff point. An epidemiological questionnaire was applied to the animal's owners to obtain the information used in risk factors analysis. The prevalence of seropositive animals was 11.7% (45/384), with reactions for serogroups Icterohaemorrhagiae (62.3%), Grippotyphosa (22.2%), Canicola (13.3%), Djasiman 2%) and Pomona (2.2%). The following risk factors were identified: age from 49 to 72 months (odds ratio = 2.74); Age > 72 months (odds ratio = 3.22); and monthly cleaning of the environment where the animals were kept (odds ratio = 10.70). We concluded that dogs attended at veterinary clinics in João Pessoa are exposed to Leptospira sp infection, with predominance of serogroups kept by wild or synanthropic animals, and suggest a monthly periodic environment cleaning where the animals are kept.(AU)

O presente trabalho investigou a prevalência e os fatores de risco associados à infecção por Leptospira sp. em cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias da cidade de João Pessoa, Estado da Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. Foram utilizadas 384 amostras sanguíneas de cães provenientes de 34 clínicas veterinárias no período de abril de 2015 a maio de 2016. O diagnóstico da infecção por Leptospira sp. foi realizado com o emprego reação de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (SAM), utilizando uma coleção com 20 antígenos patogênicos e adotando como ponto de corte a diluição 1:100. Foi aplicado um questionário epidemiológico aos proprietários dos animais para obtenção de dados a serem utilizados na análise de fatores de risco. A prevalência de animais soropositivos foi de 11,7% (45/384), com reações para os sorogrupos Icterohaemorrhagiae (62,3%), Grippotyphosa (22,2%), Canicola (13,3%), Djasiman (2,2%) e Pomona (2,2%). Foram identificados os seguintes fatores de risco: idade entre 49 e 72 meses (odds ratio = 2,74), idade maior que 72 meses (odds ratio = 3,22), e limpeza mensal do ambiente onde os animais permanecem (odds ratio = 10,70). Conclui-se que cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias de João Pessoa estão expostos à infecção por Leptospira sp., com predominância de sorogrupos mantidos por animais selvagens, e foi sugerida a realização da limpeza periódica do ambiente ocupado pelos animais.(AU)

Prevalence and risk factors to Leptospira sp. infection in dogs attended at veterinary clinics in João Pessoa, Paraíba State, Northeastern Brazil / Prevalência e fatores de risco da infecção por Leptospira sp. em cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias em João Pessoa, Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil

This study investigated the prevalence and risk factors associated with Leptospira sp. in dogs attended at veterinary clinics in the city of João Pessoa, State of Paraíba, Northeast Brazil. A total of 384 blood samples from dogs from 34 veterinary clinics were used from April 2015 to May 2016. The serological Leptospira sp diagnosis was carried out through Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT), using a collection of 20 pathogenic antigens and adopting a 1:100 dilution as cutoff point. An epidemiological questionnaire was applied to the animal's owners to obtain the information used in risk factors analysis. The prevalence of seropositive animals was 11.7% (45/384), with reactions for serogroups Icterohaemorrhagiae (62.3%), Grippotyphosa (22.2%), Canicola (13.3%), Djasiman 2%) and Pomona (2.2%). The following risk factors were identified: age from 49 to 72 months (odds ratio = 2.74); Age > 72 months (odds ratio = 3.22); and monthly cleaning of the environment where the animals were kept (odds ratio = 10.70). We concluded that dogs attended at veterinary clinics in João Pessoa are exposed to Leptospira sp infection, with predominance of serogroups kept by wild or synanthropic animals, and suggest a monthly periodic environment cleaning where the animals are kept.(AU)

O presente trabalho investigou a prevalência e os fatores de risco associados à infecção por Leptospira sp. em cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias da cidade de João Pessoa, Estado da Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. Foram utilizadas 384 amostras sanguíneas de cães provenientes de 34 clínicas veterinárias no período de abril de 2015 a maio de 2016. O diagnóstico da infecção por Leptospira sp. foi realizado com o emprego reação de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (SAM), utilizando uma coleção com 20 antígenos patogênicos e adotando como ponto de corte a diluição 1:100. Foi aplicado um questionário epidemiológico aos proprietários dos animais para obtenção de dados a serem utilizados na análise de fatores de risco. A prevalência de animais soropositivos foi de 11,7% (45/384), com reações para os sorogrupos Icterohaemorrhagiae (62,3%), Grippotyphosa (22,2%), Canicola (13,3%), Djasiman (2,2%) e Pomona (2,2%). Foram identificados os seguintes fatores de risco: idade entre 49 e 72 meses (odds ratio = 2,74), idade maior que 72 meses (odds ratio = 3,22), e limpeza mensal do ambiente onde os animais permanecem (odds ratio = 10,70). Conclui-se que cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias de João Pessoa estão expostos à infecção por Leptospira sp., com predominância de sorogrupos mantidos por animais selvagens, e foi sugerida a realização da limpeza periódica do ambiente ocupado pelos animais.(AU)

Efficacy of leptospiral commercial vaccines on the protection against an autochtonous strain recovered in Brazil

In swine and bovines, leptospirosis prevention and control is carried out via vaccination of susceptible animals using bacterins. However, the efficiency of leptospirosis vaccines has been questioned. This work aimed to investigate the potency of five leptospirosis vaccines sold commercially in Brazil, challenging the animals with one autochthonous strain of Leptospira, Canicola serovar, denoted LO4, isolated from swine. The standard protocol was followed, and renal carriers of Leptospira were identified among the surviving animals by culture and PCR. Of the five vaccines tested, only two proved effective. None of the surviving animals was positive by culture; however, one animal was positive by PCR. Three of the five vaccines sold commercially in Brazil for the immunization of swine or bovines failed the test of the efficacy to protect the vaccinated animals following challenge with an autochthonous Leptospira strain, Canicola serovar. The two vaccines provided protection against the renal carrier state in the surviving animals. The criteria used to produce leptospirosis bacterins sold commercially in Brazil must be reviewed. The industry should support researches on leptospiral vaccinology to improve the quality of the present vaccines and discover new immunogenic strains, because it is known that vaccination is one of the most important tools to increase the reproduction rates in livestock.(AU)

Efficacy of leptospiral commercial vaccines on the protection against an autochtonous strain recovered in Brazil

Abstract In swine and bovines, leptospirosis prevention and control is carried out via vaccination of susceptible animals using bacterins. However, the efficiency of leptospirosis vaccines has been questioned. This work aimed to investigate the potency of five leptospirosis vaccines sold commercially in Brazil, challenging the animals with one autochthonous strain of Leptospira, Canicola serovar, denoted LO4, isolated from swine. The standard protocol was followed, and renal carriers of Leptospira were identified among the surviving animals by culture and PCR. Of the five vaccines tested, only two proved effective. None of the surviving animals was positive by culture; however, one animal was positive by PCR. Three of the five vaccines sold commercially in Brazil for the immunization of swine or bovines failed the test of the efficacy to protect the vaccinated animals following challenge with an autochthonous Leptospira strain, Canicola serovar. The two vaccines provided protection against the renal carrier state in the surviving animals. The criteria used to produce leptospirosis bacterins sold commercially in Brazil must be reviewed. The industry should support researches on leptospiral vaccinology to improve the quality of the present vaccines and discover new immunogenic strains, because it is known that vaccination is one of the most important tools to increase the reproduction rates in livestock.

Prevalence and risk factors to Leptospira sp. infection in dogs attended at veterinary clinics in João Pessoa, Paraíba State, Northeastern Brazil / Prevalência e fatores de risco da infecção por Leptospira sp. em cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias em João Pessoa, Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with Leptospira sp. in dogs attended at veterinary clinics in the city of João Pessoa, State of Paraíba, Northeast Brazil.  A total of 384 blood samples from dogs from 34 veterinary clinics were used from April 2015 to May 2016. The diagnosis of Leptospira sp. was carried out through Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT), using a collection of 20 pathogenic antigens and adopting a 1: 100 dilution as cutoff point. An epidemiological questionnaire was applied to the owners of the animals to obtain data to be used in the analysis of risk factors. The prevalence of seropositive animals was 11.7% (45/384), with reactions for serogroups Icterohaemorrhagiae (62.3%), Grippotyphosa (22.2%), Canicola (13.3%), Djasiman 2%) and Pomona (2.2%). The following risk factors were identified: age from 49 to 72 months (odds ratio = 2.74), Age > 72 months (odds ratio = 3.22), and monthly cleaning of the environment where the animals are kept (odds ratio = 10,70). It is concluded that dogs attended at veterinary clinics in João Pessoa are exposed to infection by Leptospira sp., with predominance of serogroups kept by wild animals, and it is suggested that the periodic cleaning of the environment where the animals are kept.

O presente trabalho investigou a prevalência e os fatores de risco associados à infecção por Leptospira sp. em cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias da cidade de João Pessoa, Estado da Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. Foram utilizadas 384 amostras sanguíneas de cães provenientes de 34 clínicas veterinárias no período de abril de 2015 a maio de 2016. O diagnóstico da infecção por Leptospira sp. foi realizado com o emprego reação de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (SAM), utilizando uma coleção com 20 antígenos patogênicos e adotando como ponto de corte a diluição 1:100. Foi aplicado um questionário epidemiológico aos proprietários dos animais para obtenção de dados a serem utilizados na análise de fatores de risco. A prevalência de animais soropositivos foi de 11,7% (45/384), com reações para os sorogrupos Icterohaemorrhagiae (62,3%), Grippotyphosa (22,2%), Canicola (13,3%), Djasiman (2,2%) e Pomona (2,2%). Foram identificados os seguintes fatores de risco: idade entre 49 e 72 meses (odds ratio = 2,74), idade maior que 72 meses (odds ratio = 3,22), e limpeza mensal do ambiente onde os animais permanecem (odds ratio = 10,70). Conclui-se que cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias de João Pessoa estão expostos à infecção por Leptospira sp., com predominância de sorogrupos mantidos por animais selvagens, e foi sugerida a realização da limpeza periódica do ambiente ocupado pelo

Geo-epidemiological study of leptospira spp. infection in cattle, feral cats and rodents of the Fernando de Noronha Island, Brazil

Background: Leptospirosis is a re-emergent contagious infectious disease, caused by pathogenic leptospires that are transmitted by the urine of infected animals or bacteria-contaminated water and mud. In tropical and subtropical countries it presents high prevalence due to the temperature and humidity conditions that favor the maintenance of the agent in the environment. This disease can affect several species, in Brazilian cattle is an endemic disease, and studies have shown a high occurrence of Leptospira spp. infection in beef and dairy herds. Domestic cats as well as other species of the Family Felidae seem to be resistant to leptospirosis. However, it has been demonstrated under experimental conditions that cats may become infected by ingestion of infected rodents and contaminated water. The present study investigated the occurrence of Leptospira spp. infection in cattle, feral cats and rodents of the Fernando de Noronha Island.Materials, Methods & Results: Fernando de Noronha Island is located 360 km far from Recife and Natal, capitals of the states of Pernambuco and Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, respectively. It has an area of approximately 18.4 km2 and constitutes the submerged part of a volcanic edifice currently inactive, which base rests 4,000 m deep in the Atlantic Ocean. Blood samples were collected from all the cattle raised in the Island (n = 88), 200 feral cats and 150 rodents, and the sera were screened by MAT (Serogroups: Australis; Autumnalis; Ballum; Bataviae; Canicola; Cynopteri; Djasiman; Grippotyphosa; Hebdomadis; Icterohaemorrhagiae; Icterohaemorrhagiae; Panama; Pomona; Pyrogenes; Sejroe e Tarassovi) for detection of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies. Initially all sera were screened at 1:100 dilution and those with 50% or more agglutination were titrated at two-fold geometric dilutions. The serum titer was defined as the reciprocal of the highest positive dilution.[...]