Leptospirosis in Ireland: annual incidence and exposures associated with infection.
Garvey, P Connell, J O'Flanagan, D McKeown, P
Garvey, P
Connell, J
O'Flanagan, D
McKeown, P
Advisors
Editors
Other Contributors
Date
2013-08-05
Date Submitted
Keywords
EPIDEMIOLOGY
POPULATION HEALTH
POPULATION HEALTH
Other Subjects
LEPTOSPIROSIS
Subject Mesh
Planned Date
Start Date
Collaborators
Principal Investigators
Alternative Titles
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Abstract
SUMMARY Human leptospirosis is found throughout the world, albeit with a higher incidence in tropical regions. In temperate regions it is associated with certain occupational and recreational activities. This paper reports both on the incidence of human leptospirosis in Ireland and on possible associated exposures, using leptospirosis case notification, enhanced surveillance, hospital discharge data and death registrations. Based on official notification data, there was a threefold increase in the reported incidence of leptospirosis in Ireland between 1995-1999 and 2004-2009, which appears partially to be due to improved reporting. The exposures most associated with infection were those involving contact with livestock or water-based recreational sports, in particular kayaking. Advice on prevention should continue to be targeted in the first instance at these groups. The variety of potential transmission routes reported should inform clinicians to consider leptospirosis in individuals with a compatible clinical profile who were not from occupational groups historically considered at risk.
Language
en
ISSN
1469-4409
eISSN
ISBN
DOI
10.1017/S0950268813001775
PMID
23916046