Serosurvey of anti- Leptospira sp. and anti- Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in capybaras and collared and white-lipped peccaries.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:: Brazilian native species are reemerging as increasingly free-ranging populations. METHODS:: Sera from 31 capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) and 28 peccaries (Pecari tajacu and Tayassu pecari) were tested for anti-Leptospira and anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies using microscopic seroagglutination test. RESULTS:: Nineteen percent of free-ranging and 10.0% of captive capybaras, along with 31.8% of collared peccaries, were seropositive for T. gondii. None was seropositive for Leptospira sp. CONCLUSIONS:: The present findings indicated low risk of disease, particularly among capybaras and white-lipped peccaries; however, active surveillance programs are important for monitoring wildlife health and public health once they are in public parks around cities.