Seroprevalence and circulating serovars of Leptospira in dogs presented to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Jos, Nigeria

Abstract

Leptospirosis is a globally significant re-emerging zoonotic disease and a core concern of the One Health approach. It is an economically devastating disease causing huge losses to farmers, pet owners and degrading means of livelihood as well as infecting humans. It is caused by pathogenic spirochetes of the genus Leptospira, transmitted through contact with infected animals or contaminated environments. Despite its relevance, canine leptospirosis remains underreported in Nigeria. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence, associated risk factors, and circulating serovars of leptospira in dogs presented at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Jos, Plateau State. Blood samples were collected from 216 apparently healthy dogs and screened using the Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT). The overall seroprevalence was 50.9%, with Leptospira serovar Tarassovi being the most prevalent. Multiple serovar infections were observed. Statistically significant associations were found between Jos South LGA and serovars Icterohaemorrhagiae (p = 0.0003) and Bratislava (p = 0.0319). The study highlights the endemic nature of leptospirosis and the need for improved preventive strategies.