Risk Factors Associated With Seroreactivity Against Leptospira sp. in Horses From Brazilian Amazon.
Authors: Peixoto Ribeiro Taiã Mairon, Correia Lucas, Hofstaetter Spohr Kledir Anderson, Aguiar Daniel Moura, Martins Gabriel, de Sá Jayme Valéria
Journal: Journal of equine veterinary science
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Leptospirosis Risk Factors in Amazonian Horses Leptospirosis represents an under-investigated zoonotic concern in equine populations throughout the Brazilian Amazon, with potential implications for both animal health and public health in this region. Researchers conducted serological screening using microscopic agglutination testing on a horse population in the Amazon basin, identifying risk factors through univariate and multivariate statistical analysis to establish associations between exposure and environmental or management variables. Seroprevalence reached 32.7%, with Sejroe being the dominant serogroup at 5.9%, whilst several modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors emerged: age, sex, work activity level, dietary supplementation practices, accumulation of waste materials on premises, and the presence of felids—all of which correlated with seroreactivity. Given the limited existing knowledge of leptospirosis epidemiology in Amazonian livestock systems, these findings suggest that equine practitioners and farm managers should evaluate waste management protocols, consider the role of supplementary feeding programmes, and recognise that working horses and those in mixed-species environments warrant particular attention for disease surveillance. Further longitudinal studies in this geography remain essential to establish robust control and prevention strategies, particularly as leptospirosis presents zoonotic risk and may circulate asymptomatically in regional populations.
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Practical Takeaways
- •One in three horses in Brazilian Amazon regions may be exposed to Leptospira; veterinarians should consider serological testing in endemic areas, particularly for older animals or those with mixed work/leisure use
- •Environmental and management factors including waste accumulation and feline presence on premises are associated with increased risk; implementing hygiene measures and predator control may help reduce exposure
- •Current control and prevention strategies for equine leptospirosis in tropical regions are limited by gaps in understanding local epidemiology; consult with regional veterinary authorities for evidence-based recommendations
Key Findings
- •General seroprevalence of Leptospira sp. in Brazilian Amazon horses was 32.7%
- •Sejroe was the most prevalent serogroup at 5.9%
- •Seroreactivity was significantly associated with age, sex, activity type, feed supplementation, trash accumulation, and presence of felines
- •Leptospirosis epidemiology in Amazon livestock remains poorly understood and requires further investigation