Epidemiological variables conditioning the presentation of leptospirosis

Abstract

Leptospirosis, a zoonotic disease with worldwide distribution, is caused by spirochetes of the genus
Leptospira. It occurs in some areas endemically and is associated with environmental factors, precipitation,
temperature, exposure to infected animals and floods. This disease can manifest with a wide variety of
clinical signs, from mild forms to severe and potentially fatal conditions. The symptoms in both humans
and canines can be confused with different multisystem pathologies and hemorrhagic diseases of viral
origin. Correct diagnosis (clinical and laboratory) at the onset of symptoms is important to avoid serious
cases and deaths in outbreak situations. Commercial vaccines can prevent cases in canines, but protection
is limited to the serovars present locally. Efforts and collaboration of various sectors, under the concept of
“One Health”, are essential to guarantee optimal environmental, animal and especially human health, both
at the local, national and global levels.