The Changing Epidemiology of Leptospirosis in Israel
Author Information
Author(s): Revital Kariv, Robert Klempfner, Ada Barnea, Yechezkel Sidi, Eli Schwartz
Primary Institution: Chaim Sheba Medical Center
Hypothesis
What are the changes in the epidemiology of leptospirosis in Israel from 1985 to 1999?
Conclusion
The epidemiology of leptospirosis in Israel has shifted from a rural to an urban disease, with a decline in agricultural cases and an increase in urban cases caused by Leptospira icterohemorrhagica.
Supporting Evidence
- The average annual incidence of leptospirosis was 0.05/100,000 during the study period.
- Leptospira icterohemorrhagica cases increased from 2% to 29% compared to the previous decade.
- 90% of the patients were male, indicating a potential occupational risk.
- The case-fatality rate for L. icterohemorrhagica was 5.8%.
- Most cases occurred in urban areas, particularly in Tel Aviv.
Takeaway
Leptospirosis used to be more common in farms, but now it's more often found in cities, especially in places like markets.
Methodology
The study reviewed serologically confirmed cases of leptospirosis from 1985 to 1999, analyzing demographic information, residential area, occupation, risk factors, and outcomes.
Limitations
Underreporting and underdiagnosis cannot be ruled out.
Participant Demographics
Ages ranged from 16 to 66 years, with 90% being male.
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