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Leptospirosis in Germany, 1962-2003.
Andreas Jansen1, Irene Schöneberg, Christina Frank
1Robert Koch Institute, Department of Infectious Diseases Epidemiology, Berlin, Germany. JansenA@rki.de
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|July 19, 2005
Summary
Human leptospirosis incidence in Germany has increased since 1997, with occupational, recreational, and residential exposures all contributing. Changes in rat and dog populations may drive these trends.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Investigated human leptospirosis trends in Germany using national surveillance data (1962-2003) and surveys (1997-2000).
- Monitored incidence rates and exposure sources for leptospirosis cases.
Observation:
- Leptospirosis incidence decreased from 1962 to 1997.
- Surveillance data revealed an increasing trend from 1998-2003, reaching 0.06 per 100,000.
- Occupational, recreational, and residential exposures each accounted for approximately 30-37% of cases.
Findings:
- Direct animal contact, primarily with rats and dogs, was reported in 31% of cases.
- Recent changes in transmission patterns observed.
- Expanding rat populations and resurgence of canine leptospirosis identified as potential drivers.
Implications:
- Leptospirosis spread may increase in temperate regions like Germany due to evolving transmission dynamics.
- Public health strategies and preventive measures require adaptation to current epidemiological patterns.
- Understanding exposure routes is crucial for targeted interventions.