Consultant laboratory for Leptospira

Leptospirosis is a zoonosis of global significance that is caused by infection with bacteria of the genus Leptospira spp. Rodents, which are considered the main reservoir of the pathogen, are crucial for the spread of leptospirosis, but also domestic and farm animals such as dogs, pigs and cattle contribute to spreading the pathogen Infected animals can excrete the pathogen in large numbers, even if they are asymptomatic. Transmission to humans usually occurs through indirect contact (contact with water or mud contaminated with excreta containing the pathogen) or direct contact with the urine of infected animals via small skin lesions or the mucous membranes.

To date, between 37 and over 300 cases of human leptospirosis have been reported each year. However, due to the often unspecific clinical symptoms of leptospirosis, a high number of unreported cases is likely. The clinical picture of leptospirosis is extremely varied and ranges from mild flu-like symptoms to fulminant septic diseases that can lead to death within a few days. Certain occupational groups, such as canal and field workers, stable staff, veterinarians and butchers are particularly at risk due to contact with urine of infected animals. Leisure activities such as travelling (especially to the tropics) but also water sports in inland waters without history of travel and keeping pets are becoming increasingly important as potential risks for leptospirosis.

According to the regulation on Notifiable Animal Diseases, leptospirosis is notifiable in sheep and pigs as well as for "other animal species" not listed in the regulation. In Germany, vaccines are currently only authorised for dogs, pigs and cattle. Dogs should be regularly vaccinated against leptospirosis, also to protect humans. 

The main tasks of the consultant laboratory for leptospira include

• Advice on questions related to microbiological diagnostics and pathogen typing
• Direct and indirect detection of the pathogen using microagglutination test (reference method), ELISA, PCR, cultivation
• Pathogen typing using PCR-based methods and subsequent sequencing
• Advice on requirements for test material, samples and shipping conditions
• Development of diagnostic methodsfor the detection of leptospires and validation
• Research of the occurrence and significance of leptospires in humans, reservoir animals and the environment

Further information on counselling and special diagnostics can be found External Link:here.

In Germany, direct or indirect detection of human pathogenic leptospires is communicable in accordance with Section 7 (1) of the Infection Protection Act if the detection indicates an acute infection.

External Link:German law on mandatory reporting

External Link:Infection Act