Leptospirosis in Germany, 1962–2003

TLDR

Leptospirosis incidence in Germany fell steadily from 1962 to 1997 but rose to 0.06 per 100,000 between 1998 and 2003. The study examined epidemiologic trends by analyzing national surveillance data from 1962–2003 and a questionnaire survey from 1997–2000, with the goal of adapting preventive measures to the changing epidemiology. Data were collected through national surveillance records and a structured questionnaire administered to patients during 1997–2000. Among 102 confirmed cases, 30% were occupational, 30% recreational (including 16% abroad), 37% residential, and 31% involved direct contact with animals, leading the authors to conclude that expanding rat populations and rising canine leptospirosis are altering transmission patterns and may promote spread in temperate regions.

Abstract

Abstract Epidemiologic trends of human leptospirosis in Germany were investigated by analyzing national surveillance data from 1962 to 2003 and by conducting a questionnaire-based survey from 1997 to 2000. After a steady decrease of leptospirosis incidence from 1962 to 1997, surveillance data indicate an increase in disease incidence to 0.06 per 100,000 (1998–2003). Of 102 laboratory-confirmed cases in humans from 1997 to 2000, 30% were related to occupational exposures. Recreational exposures were reported in 30% (including traveling abroad in 16%), whereas residential exposure accounted for 37% of the cases. Direct contact with animals, mostly rats and dogs, was observed in 31% of the cases. We conclude that recent changes in transmission patterns of leptospirosis, partially caused by an expanding rat population and the resurgence of canine leptospirosis, may facilitate the spread of the disease in temperate countries like Germany. Preventive measures should be adapted to the changing epidemiology of leptospirosis.