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Risk factors associated with leptospirosis in northeastern Thailand, 1998
W Tangkanakul1, P Tharmaphornpil, B D Plikaytis
1Ministry of Public Health, Nonthaburi, Thailand.
Summary
Leptospirosis, a bacterial zoonotic disease, is linked to specific agricultural activities in Thailand. Identifying these risk factors can aid in the early diagnosis and treatment of leptospirosis.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Leptospirosis is a widespread zoonotic disease caused by Leptospira bacteria.
- Infection occurs through contact with infected animals or contaminated environments (water, soil).
- Severe cases can lead to jaundice, renal failure (Weil's disease), meningitis, and other fatal complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify potential risk factors for leptospirosis in Thailand.
- To inform early diagnosis and treatment strategies.
Main Methods:
- A matched case-control study was conducted in Nakornratchasrima Province.
- Fifty-nine cases and 118 controls were analyzed.
- Risk factors were assessed based on activities in the two weeks preceding illness.
Main Results:
- Four activities were significantly associated with leptospirosis:
- Walking through water (OR = 4.9).
- Extended periods (over 6 hours/day) of applying fertilizer in wet fields (OR = 3.4).
- Extended periods (over 6 hours/day) of plowing in wet fields (OR = 3.5).
- Extended periods (over 6 hours/day) of pulling rice plant sprouts in wet fields (OR = 3.1).
Conclusions:
- Specific agricultural practices in wet fields are identified as significant risk factors for leptospirosis in Thailand.
- These findings can assist healthcare providers in the early identification and management of leptospirosis cases.
- Understanding these risk factors is crucial for public health interventions in endemic regions.