Human leptospirosis in Denmark 1970-1996: an epidemiological and clinical study
1Departmeunt of Epidemiology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Scandinavian Journal of Infectious Diseases
|October 31, 2000
Summary
Human leptospirosis is rare in Denmark, primarily affecting adult men through occupational exposure, especially fish farmers and farmers. Weil's disease occurred in 63% of cases, with a 7% fatality rate, mainly from the icterohaemorrhagiae serovar.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Leptospirosis is a zoonotic bacterial disease with diverse clinical presentations.
- Understanding its epidemiology is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiological and clinical features of human leptospirosis in Denmark.
- To identify risk factors and serovar prevalence.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 118 laboratory-confirmed human leptospirosis cases.
- Data collected from 1970 to 1996 in Denmark.
Main Results:
- Incidence was 0.09 per 100,000 inhabitants annually.
- Most frequent serovars were icterohaemorrhagiae (72%) and sejroe (20%).
- Occupational exposure (fish farmers, farmers) was identified in 63% of cases; 72% of cases occurred between July and November.
Conclusions:
- Leptospirosis, though rare, should be considered in acute febrile illness among high-risk groups in Denmark.
- The icterohaemorrhagiae serovar was associated with a higher risk of Weil's disease and fatality.
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