WildLife Group
of the SAVA
Leptospirosis
in Wildlife
Dr. P.H. Mapham, BVSc (Hon)
Vetdiagnostix Veterinary Pathology Services,
Tel no: 033 347 2259
Cell No: 082 771 3227
E-mail: [email protected]
Introduction
Leptospirosis caused by pathogenic spirochetes
belonging to the family Leptospiracea, genus
Leptospira is an important cause of abortion,
stillbirths, infertility, poor milk production and death
amongst livestock. It may have a significant economic
impact on the livestock industry. Its epidemiology
may be complex and transmission of infection involves
recirculation of the pathogens among reservoirs which
includes domestic and wild animals.
4
Dr. J.H. Vorster, BVSc, MMedVet(Path)
Vetdiagnostix Veterinary Pathology Services,
Tel no: 033 342 5104
Cell no: 082 820 5030
E-mail: [email protected]
It is increasingly recognized as an emerging zoonotic
infection worldwide, partly brought about by factors
such as climate change and demographic shifts, and
believed to be grossly underestimated as public
health and veterinary concern. Farmers, dairy
industry workers, veterinarians, sewer workers, pet
keepers, rodent catchers, fishermen, miners, military
personnel, international travellers and those persons
participating in aquatic leisure activities are more
prone to acquire the disease.