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Epidemiological studies of plague in India: 2. The changing pattern of rodents and fleas in Calcutta and other cities

S C Seal

    Bulletin of the World Health Organization
    |July 7, 2010
    PubMed

    Insights

    Urban plague in India is primarily linked to Rattus rattus rodents and Xenopsylla cheopis fleas. Declining populations of these key species correlate with fewer human plague cases.

    Area of Science:

    • Epidemiology
    • Zoonotic diseases
    • Urban ecology

    Background:

    • Plague epidemiology in India has historically been associated with specific rodent and flea species.
    • Understanding the dynamics of these vectors is crucial for public health interventions.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To analyze the long-term trends of key rodent and flea species in Indian urban environments.
    • To investigate the correlation between vector populations and human plague incidence.

    Main Methods:

    • Analysis of historical data on rodent and flea populations in Bombay and Calcutta.
    • Correlation analysis between species abundance and reported human plague cases.

    Main Results:

    • Rattus rattus and Xenopsylla cheopis were identified as the primary drivers of urban plague in India.
    • Recent decreases in R. rattus and X. cheopis populations observed in major cities.
    • Concurrent rise in Bandicota bengalensis populations, which are less susceptible to X. cheopis infestation.
    • Observed reduction in human plague cases coinciding with decreased populations of key vectors.

    Conclusions:

    • The epidemiological importance of R. rattus and X. cheopis in Indian urban plague transmission is confirmed.
    • Shifts in rodent and flea populations, particularly the rise of B. bengalensis, may influence plague dynamics.
    • Population trends of vectors are critical indicators for predicting and managing human plague outbreaks.

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