Prevalence and risk factors for canine leptospirosis in a population of the El Oro province

Abstract

Introduction: Canine leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease that is of growing concern worldwide. In Ecuador, there has been an increase in potential cases in various provinces. This research is conducted in response to the lack of detailed information on leptospirosis in the city of Santa Rosa, province of El Oro. This constitutes a significant limitation for designing locally tailored interventions. The absence of specific strategies for this area further motivated the execution of this study with the aim of identifying both the prevalence of the disease and associated risk factors. Objectives: The main objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of canine leptospirosis by detecting IgM and IgG antibodies in dogs, as well as to identify associated risk factors in the city of Santa Rosa, province of El Oro, during the months of June to September 2023. To achieve this purpose, the prevalence of acute canine leptospirosis infection was sought by specifically detecting IgM antibodies, and the presence of IgG antibodies related to the disease was evaluated. Additionally, investigations were carried out to identify risk factors contributing to the development of canine leptospirosis and its potential complications. Methodology: This study adopts a descriptive cross-sectional observational approach, using IgM and IgG immunochromatography serological tests in a sample of 60 dogs in the city of Santa Rosa, province of El Oro. Participant selection was conducted for convenience, considering those with suggestive symptoms or risk factors linked to leptospirosis. In addition to serological tests, the research was complemented with surveys to the owners aimed at identifying predominant risk factors. Results: This study revealed that 5% of the canine population evaluated in Santa Rosa, El Oro, Ecuador, exhibited IgM antibodies, indicating acute infections of canine leptospirosis. However, IgG antibodies were not detected, signifying the absence of past infections. While half of the dogs were vaccinated, the worrisome finding was a 75% contact rate with rodents. Unfavorable environmental conditions, such as homes with thatched roofs and dirt floors, suggest potential facilitators of the disease. These results underscore the need for preventive strategies focused on reducing rodent contact and improving environmental conditions in the region. Conclusions: A modest presence (5%) of acute infections was identified, emphasizing the need for preventive strategies. The absence of past infections suggests a key avenue for further investigation. Risk factors, such as high contact with rodents and unfavorable environmental conditions, highlight critical areas for specific interventions. Overall, this study not only quantifies prevalence and risk factors but also establishes a valuable precedent for future research and control strategies in the region.