Leptospirosis in rural Ghana

In a wet forest area of Ghana a serological survey of antibodies against 24 leptospira strains was carried out; 460 sera were obtained, of which 153 (33%) were positive. Bush farmers and cocoa plantation labourers showed 39% positive reactions and can be identified as high-risk groups. A reactivity rate of 14% was found among students, hospital staff and clerical occupations. No difference was observed between males and females, probably because both sexes are equally exposed. Cross-reactivity to different serovars was common.