Presence of <i>Leptospira</i> spp. in a Mosaic of Wetlands Used for Livestock Raising under Differing Hydroclimatic Conditions
Yosena Chiani, Paulina Jacob, Gisela Mayora, Diego Sebastián Aquino, Rubén D. Quintana, Leticia M. Mesa
Abstract
because they provide a suitable habitat for the bacteria and are often home to many animal species that can act as reservoirs for leptospirosis. Bringing humans and animals into closer contact with contaminated water and soil and increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events may further exacerbate the risk of leptospirosis outbreaks, which is mostly relevant in the context of climate change and a widespread intensification of productive activities, particularly in the Lower Delta of the Paraná River. The detection of leptospiral species in wetland ecosystems impaired by livestock raising intensification can help to identify propitious environmental factors and potential sources of infection, develop preventive measures, and plan for appropriate responses to outbreaks, ultimately improving public health outcomes.