Publication:

A serological study of leptospirosis in Chennai

Background Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease of mammals caused by serovars belonging to the spirocheate Leptospira interrogans. Commonly occurs in tropical and sub tropical regions.

Methods A total number of 2180 suspected cases were included in the study during the period April 2014 to June 2014. All the samples were subjected to macroscopic slide agglutination test (MSAT). Suspected leptospirosis cases (n=2180) in the Chennai city and its suburbs were clinically evaluated.

Results The most common presentation involved was specific signs and symptoms including fever, myalgia and headache (99%). Fever followed by jaundice and renal failure were observed in 3.74% cases. Fever followed by chills, skin rashes, cough, vomiting were observed in 2.43% cases. About 30% of the infected people were found in the age group of above 60 years. Female (57 %) were found predominantly infected when compared to male (43 %). Out of 2180 suspected cases 534 (32%) were found infected due to leptospirosis during the summer by MSAT method. (April ’14-June’14).

Conclusions This study shows leptospirosis found more common among female than male, probably due to occupational status of leptospirosis. Based on our study we suggest that senior age group people (age more than 60 years) are highly proven to this disease probably due to the less immunity factor.