A groundbreaking study conducted in Muheza District, Tanga Region, has uncovered the presence of Leptospira infection in rodents, cattle, and humans, prompting a strong recommendation for a multisectoral One Health approach to control the disease. The research, led by a team from Sokoine University of Agriculture, used the Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT) to detect antibodies against six Leptospira serovars.
Leptospirosis, a neglected zoonotic disease caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospira, spreads through contact with urine or body fluids of infected animals or contaminated environments. It can lead to serious complications in humans, including kidney or liver failure, miscarriage, or even death if untreated.
The study involved 479 serum samples from rodents, cattle, and human participants. Results showed that 13.1% of humans, 12.5% of cattle, and 6.0% of rodents tested positive for leptospiral antibodies. The most frequently detected serovars were Grippotyphosa, Sokoine, and Hebdomadis, all known to circulate among livestock and rodents, posing a serious risk to people who live and work closely with these animals.
Farmers were found to be the most affected group, highlighting occupational exposure risks, especially due to close interactions with animals and contaminated environments. The presence of antibodies in both wild rodents and domesticated cattle suggests a complex transmission cycle and the need for integrated public health, veterinary, and environmental interventions.
Researchers urge public health authorities and stakeholders to implement rodent control, public education, and health surveillance programs. Special attention should be given to at-risk populations such as livestock keepers, abattoir workers, and farmers. The study also recommends further research using molecular methods to understand Leptospira transmission pathways more clearly.
This evidence reinforces the necessity of adopting the One Health concept, which recognizes that the health of humans, animals, and ecosystems are interconnected. By working together across disciplines, Tanzania can better manage and prevent outbreaks of leptospirosis and other zoonotic diseases.
Manyama, G.G., Mlowe, G.D., Lupindu, A. and Katakweba, A., (2024). Detection and determinants of Leptospira infection in rodents, cattle and humans in Muheza District, Tanzania: A One Health Appeal. Public Health Challenges, 2025; 4:e70043 https://doi.org/10.1002/puh2.70043
The Department of Animal, Aquaculture, and Range Sciences
The College of Agriculture, Sokoine University of Agriculture
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