Seroprevalence and Socio-demographic Risk Factors of Leptospirosis in Aligarh Region of North India

Abstract

Background: Leptospirosis, a zoonosis, is a worldwide public health problem. The incidences ranges from 0.1–10 per 100 000 per year globally and may reach over 50 per 100 000 during outbreaks. It’s reported in a number of countries of the South-East Asia Region from time to time. The magnitude of the leptospirosis problem differs from country to country and depends on awareness and attitude of public health care decision makers Materials and Methods: A prospective study was carried out to study the seroprevalence, various demographical and socioeconomic factors associated with leptospirosis in Aligarh region during January 2013 to May 2014. Blood samples collected from 171 suspected cases of leptospirosis were subjected to IgM ELISA as per manufacturer’s instructions. Statistical Analysis: The Socioeconomic status was determined by Kuppuswamy scale on the basis of education, occupation and per capita income and classified as lower (score below 10), middle (score between 11-25), upper (score >25). Results: The study consisted of 171 suspected patients of leptospirosis, 14% (24 cases) were positive by ELISA. In case of 24 positive cases, 20 cases (p value 0.0125) had history of contact with wet & dirty environment. Conclusion: The study highlights the disease burden in different age groups, gender, socioeconomic strata and in varied geographical locations.