Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Where dogs in the USA are most at risk for leptospirosis
By White, Allison M et al.·Published in Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997)·2017·EcoHealth Alliance, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Hotspots of canine leptospirosis in the United States of America.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A study found that leptospirosis, a disease that can cause liver and kidney problems in dogs, is becoming more common in the United States. The research analyzed data from over 3,000 counties and identified areas, particularly in the Midwest, East, and Southwest, where dogs are more likely to test positive for this infection. Factors like living in suburban areas or near deciduous forests, as well as local climate conditions, were linked to higher infection rates. This information can help veterinarians better diagnose and prevent leptospirosis in dogs, especially in high-risk areas.
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Abstract
Leptospirosis is a widespread zoonotic disease that causes hepatic and renal disease in dogs and human beings. The incidence of leptospirosis in dogs in the USA appears to be increasing. This study used 14 years of canine leptospirosis testing data across 3109 counties in the USA to analyze environmental and socio-economic correlates with rates of infection and to produce a map of locations of increased risk for canine leptospirosis. Boosted regression trees were used to identify the probability of a dog testing positive for leptospirosis based on microscopic agglutination test (MAT) results, and environmental and socio-economic data. The Midwest, East and Southwest were more likely to yield positive tests for leptospirosis, although specific counties in Appalachia had some of the highest predicted probabilities. Location (suburban areas or areas with deciduous forest) and climate (precipitation and temperature) were predictors for positive MAT results for leptospirosis, although the precise direction and strength of the effects was difficult to interpret. Wide geographic variation in predicted risk was identified. This risk mapping approach may provide opportunities for improved diagnosis, control and prevention of leptospirosis in dogs.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28410673/