Prevalence of Leptospira Antibodies among Stray Dogs in Osaka, Japan

Abstract

Prevalence of 5 anti-Leptospira-interrogans serovars-(icterohaemorrhagiae, autumnalis, hebdomadis, australis and canicola)- in stray dogs in 4 Osaka regions (Minou, Shijounawate, Fujiidera and lzumisano) was investigated between September 2002 and July 2003. Of the 87 dogs surveyed, 46 (52.9%) had antibodies against one or more of the serovars. No significant differences were noted between males and females. Antibodies against 4 serovars (icterohaemorrhagiae, autumnalis, hebdomadis and australis) were detected. None against canicola were observed. These prevalences may reflect failure to vaccinate stray animals in Osaka Prefecture.