Rodent abundance dynamics and leptospirosis carriage in an area of hyper-endemicity in New Caledonia.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Widespread but particularly incident in the tropics, leptospirosis is transmitted to humans directly or indirectly by virtually any Mammal species. However, rodents are recognized as the most important reservoir. In endemic regions, seasonal outbreaks are observed during hot rainy periods. In such regions, hot spots can be evidenced, where leptospirosis is "hyper-endemic", its incidence reaching 500 annual cases per 100,000. A better knowledge of how rodent populations and their Leptospira prevalence respond to seasonal and meteorological fluctuations might help implement relevant control measures.

Methodology/principal findings

In two tribes in New Caledonia with hyper-endemic leptospirosis, rodent abundance and Leptospira prevalence was studied twice a year, in

SUBMITTER: Perez J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3201910 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature