Human leptospirosis in Portugal: a retrospective study of eighteen years (original) (raw)

2006, International Journal of Infectious Diseases

AI-generated Abstract

Leptospirosis, a significant zoonotic disease, poses increasing public health challenges in Portugal, particularly in the Azores islands. This retrospective analysis covers 4618 patients tested for leptospiral infection over eighteen years, identifying 1024 confirmed cases, predominantly among middle-aged males. The study reveals a rising incidence, with peak infections in winter months and a predominance of serovars Icterohaemorrhagiae, Pomona, and Ballum. Findings underline the importance of improved surveillance and diagnostic resources to address this emerging health concern.