Leptospirosis: a re-emerging infection
- Author:
LIM VKE
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
leptospirosis, re-emerging infection, zoonosis, Weil
- From:The Malaysian Journal of Pathology
2011;33(1):1-5
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Leptospirosis is a re-emerging zoonotic infection. In developing countries large outbreaks have
occurred in urban slums and following fl oods. Individuals from developed nations are also now
more frequently exposed to the infection as a result of international travel and greater participation
in certain outdoor recreational activities. Leptospirosis remains a diagnostic challenge since it often
presents as a non-specifi c febrile event and laboratory diagnosis is still currently inadequate. Rapid
tests may not be suffi ciently sensitive in early disease and culture facilities are not widely available.
A severe pulmonary haemorrhagic form of the infection is increasingly being encountered in many
countries including Malaysia. The control of leptospirosis is largely dependent on general hygienic
measures and rodent control. An effective human vaccine is still not available. There remains much
that is unknown about this disease and there is scope and opportunity for good quality research.
- Full text:W020151209353734699818.pdf
