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A waterborne outbreak of leptospirosis
Abstract:
During the period from July 10-26, 1984, 33 cases of serologically confirmed leptospirosis occurred in a small town in central Italy. The fatality rate, including the deaths of two unconfirmed cases, was 8.6% (3 of 35). Based on serologic evidence, the infection was caused by leptospires of the serogroup Australis. Epidemiologic study showed that the patients contracted the infection by drinking water from a fountain. The source of leptospiral contamination was probably a hedgehog trapped in a reservoir of water not in use but still connected to the water system of the fountain.
Insights
A 1984 leptospirosis outbreak in Italy was linked to contaminated fountain water. The infection, caused by Leptospira serogroup Australis, likely originated from a hedgehog in a connected water reservoir.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease caused by pathogenic spirochetes of the genus Leptospira.
- Outbreaks of leptospirosis can occur in various environments, posing public health risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate an outbreak of leptospirosis in central Italy.
- To identify the causative agent and transmission route of the infection.
Main Methods:
- Serological confirmation of leptospirosis cases.
- Epidemiological investigation to determine exposure sources.
- Identification of the infecting Leptospira serogroup.
Main Results:
- 33 cases of leptospirosis were confirmed between July 10-26, 1984.
- The overall fatality rate was 8.6% (3 of 35 cases).
- Leptospirosis was attributed to Leptospira serogroup Australis, transmitted via contaminated fountain water.
Conclusions:
- Contaminated drinking water from a fountain was the likely source of the outbreak.
- A hedgehog in an unused water reservoir connected to the fountain system was identified as the probable source of leptospiral contamination.