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Učestalost i održavanje Leptospiraserovara Australis i Bratislava u domaćih i divljih životinja u Hrvatskoj

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The occurrence and maintenance of

The occurrence and maintenance of

Leptospira

Leptospira

serovars Australis

serovars Australis

and Bratislava in domestic and wild animals in Croatia

and Bratislava in domestic and wild animals in Croatia

Zoran Milas

Zoran Milas11*, Zrinka Štritof Majeti*, Zrinka Štritof Majetićć11, Josipa Habuš, Josipa Habuš11, Vesna Moj, Vesna Mojččec ec Perko

Perko11, Vilim Starešina, Vilim Starešina11, Ljubo Barbi, Ljubo Barbićć11, Vladimir Stevanovi, Vladimir Stevanovićć11, , Matko Perharić

Matko Perharić11, Boris Ljubi, Boris Ljubićć22, and Nenad Turk, and Nenad Turk11

1

1Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia

of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia 2

2Veterinary clinic „Šapa“ d.o.o., Zagreb, CroatiaVeterinary clinic „Šapa“ d.o.o., Zagreb, Croatia

________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ MILAS, Z., Z. ŠTRITOF MAJETIĆ, J. HABUŠ, V. MOJČEC PERKO, MILAS, Z., Z. ŠTRITOF MAJETIĆ, J. HABUŠ, V. MOJČEC PERKO, V. STAREŠINA, LJ. BARBIĆ, V. STEVANOVIĆ, M. PERHARIĆ, B. LJUBIĆ, V. STAREŠINA, LJ. BARBIĆ, V. STEVANOVIĆ, M. PERHARIĆ, B. LJUBIĆ, N. TURK:

N. TURK: The occurrence and maintenance of The occurrence and maintenance of LeptospiraLeptospira serovars Australis and serovars Australis and Bratislava in domestic and wild animals in Croatia.

Bratislava in domestic and wild animals in Croatia. Vet. arhiv 83, 357-369, 2013. ABSTRACT

Over a 10-year period, from 2002 to 2011, 20,157 sera samples and 984 kidneys of wild and domestic Over a 10-year period, from 2002 to 2011, 20,157 sera samples and 984 kidneys of wild and domestic animals were collected and tested for leptospirosis at the Laboratory for Leptospirosis of the Veterinary Faculty, animals were collected and tested for leptospirosis at the Laboratory for Leptospirosis of the Veterinary Faculty, University of Zagreb. Out of 19,732 sera samples of horses, 3876 (19.64%) had agglutinating antibodies against University of Zagreb. Out of 19,732 sera samples of horses, 3876 (19.64%) had agglutinating antibodies against one or more

one or more LeptospiraLeptospira serovars. The highest seroprevalence in horses was found for the following serovars: serovars. The highest seroprevalence in horses was found for the following serovars: sv Bratislava, sv Pomona and sv Australis. In wild boars, out of 215 samples 75 (34.88%) were positive and the sv Bratislava, sv Pomona and sv Australis. In wild boars, out of 215 samples 75 (34.88%) were positive and the most prevalent serovars were sv Australis, sv Grippotyphosa and sv Tarassovi. Out of 170 pig sera we found most prevalent serovars were sv Australis, sv Grippotyphosa and sv Tarassovi. Out of 170 pig sera we found 66 (38.82%) positive animals. The most prevalent serovars were sv Australis, sv Ballum and sv Saxkoebing. 66 (38.82%) positive animals. The most prevalent serovars were sv Australis, sv Ballum and sv Saxkoebing. In red foxes, out of 59 sera samples 34 (57.60%) were positive for leptospirosis. We found the highest titre for In red foxes, out of 59 sera samples 34 (57.60%) were positive for leptospirosis. We found the highest titre for sv Australis, sv Sejroe, sv Saxkoebing and sv Grippotyphosa. Out of 151 sera samples of dogs, 26 (17.22%) sv Australis, sv Sejroe, sv Saxkoebing and sv Grippotyphosa. Out of 151 sera samples of dogs, 26 (17.22%) had antibodies for

had antibodies for LeptospiraLeptospira serovars. The highest seroprevalence was for sv Pomona, sv Grippotyphosa, sv serovars. The highest seroprevalence was for sv Pomona, sv Grippotyphosa, sv

Australis and sv Icterohaemorrhagiae. Out of 262 kidney samples taken from the yellow-necked fi eld mouse Australis and sv Icterohaemorrhagiae. Out of 262 kidney samples taken from the yellow-necked fi eld mouse ((ApodemusApodemus fl avicollisfl avicollis) ) LeptospiraeLeptospirae were isolated from 32 (12.21%) samples including 13 (40.63%) isolates of were isolated from 32 (12.21%) samples including 13 (40.63%) isolates of L. interrogans

L. interrogans, serogorup Australis, sv Bratislava; , serogorup Australis, sv Bratislava; fifi ve (15.62%) isolates of ve (15.62%) isolates of L. borgpeterseniL. borgpeterseni, serogoup Sejroe, , serogoup Sejroe,

sv Saxkoebing; four (12.5%) isolates of

sv Saxkoebing; four (12.5%) isolates of L. interrogansL. interrogans, serogroup Australis, sv Muenchen-FR. From 122 kidney , serogroup Australis, sv Muenchen-FR. From 122 kidney samples of the long-tailed fi eld mouse (

samples of the long-tailed fi eld mouse (Apodemus sylvaticusApodemus sylvaticus) 22 (18.03%) were positive for ) 22 (18.03%) were positive for LeptospiraLeptospira. The . The

most frequently isolated

most frequently isolated LeptospiraLeptospira were: seven (31.82%) isolates of were: seven (31.82%) isolates of L. interrogansL. interrogans, serogroup Australis, sv , serogroup Australis, sv Bratislava; six (27.27%) isolates of

Bratislava; six (27.27%) isolates of L. interrogansL. interrogans, serogroup Australis, undetermined serovar; three (13.64%) , serogroup Australis, undetermined serovar; three (13.64%)

isolates of

isolates of L. interrogansL. interrogans, serogroup Australis, sv Muenchen-FR. Out of 96 kidney samples of the black-striped , serogroup Australis, sv Muenchen-FR. Out of 96 kidney samples of the black-striped

fi eld mouse (

fi eld mouse (Apodemus agrariusApodemus agrarius) from 29 (30.21%) we isolated ) from 29 (30.21%) we isolated LeptospiraLeptospira. The most frequent serovars were: . The most frequent serovars were:

*Corresponding author:

Dr. Zoran Milas, Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Dr. Zoran Milas, Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Heinzelova 55, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia, Phone and Fax: +385 1 2390 207; E-mail: zoran.milas@vef.hr

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L. kirschneri

L. kirschneri, serogroup Pomona, sv Mozdok in eight (27.59%) samples, serogroup Pomona, sv Mozdok in eight (27.59%) samples, L. kirschneri, L. kirschneri, serogroup Bataviae, sv , serogroup Bataviae, sv Bataviae in two (6.9%) samples while 19 (65.52%) isolates are still undetermined. Considering the results of Bataviae in two (6.9%) samples while 19 (65.52%) isolates are still undetermined. Considering the results of our and previous investigations of leptospirosis in Croatia, we can conclude that

our and previous investigations of leptospirosis in Croatia, we can conclude that LeptospiraLeptospira serovars from the serovars from the serogroups Australis, sv Bratislava, sv Australis and sv Lora are maintained among wild life animal species. serogroups Australis, sv Bratislava, sv Australis and sv Lora are maintained among wild life animal species. The results of this and our previous studies of leptospirosis in wild animal species in Croatia strongly support The results of this and our previous studies of leptospirosis in wild animal species in Croatia strongly support the conclusion that wild carnivores and omnivores, such as the red fox, wild boar and brown bear, could also be the conclusion that wild carnivores and omnivores, such as the red fox, wild boar and brown bear, could also be maintaining reservoir hosts for serovars from the serogroup Australis.

maintaining reservoir hosts for serovars from the serogroup Australis.

Key words:

Key words: LeptospiraLeptospira, Australis, Bratislava, reservoirs, Croatia, Australis, Bratislava, reservoirs, Croatia

________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________

Introduction Introduction The life cycle of

The life cycle of LeptospiraLeptospira is maintained by circulation in nature among subclinically is maintained by circulation in nature among subclinically infected animals, which serve as maintenance hosts or reservoir hosts. These animals, infected animals, which serve as maintenance hosts or reservoir hosts. These animals, which include a great number of wild and domestic animal species, shed

which include a great number of wild and domestic animal species, shed LeptospiraLeptospira via via urine and serve as a source of infection for another animal species, called accidental hosts. urine and serve as a source of infection for another animal species, called accidental hosts.

Distribution of

Distribution of LeptospiraLeptospira serovars and the spectrum of maintaining and accidental serovars and the spectrum of maintaining and accidental reservoirs is very wide and heterogeneous, depending on different regions in the world reservoirs is very wide and heterogeneous, depending on different regions in the world and they are liable to change over time. Leptospirosis has been investigated in Croatia and they are liable to change over time. Leptospirosis has been investigated in Croatia for more than 50 years. The collected data provide a wide and very nearly clear picture for more than 50 years. The collected data provide a wide and very nearly clear picture of leptospirosis epidemiology in humans and animals, but also raise a large number of leptospirosis epidemiology in humans and animals, but also raise a large number of questions. Previous epizootiological studies in Croatia suggest a high degree of of questions. Previous epizootiological studies in Croatia suggest a high degree of adaptation between rats (

adaptation between rats (Rattus norvegicusRattus norvegicus) and the serovar Icterohaemorrhagiae, ) and the serovar Icterohaemorrhagiae, house mice (

house mice (Mus musculusMus musculus) and serovar Sejroe, the common vole () and serovar Sejroe, the common vole (Microtus arvalisMicrotus arvalis) ) and serovar Grippotyphosa, the black-striped fi eld mouse (

and serovar Grippotyphosa, the black-striped fi eld mouse (Apodemus agrariusApodemus agrarius) and the ) and the serovar Pomona, the yellow-necked fi eld mouse (

serovar Pomona, the yellow-necked fi eld mouse (ApodemusApodemus fl avicollisfl avicollis) and the serovar ) and the serovar Saxkoebing (

Saxkoebing (ZAHARIJA et al., 1982; BORZAHARIJA et al., 1982; BORČČIIĆĆ et al., 1986; MILAS et al., 2002; TURK et al., et al., 1986; MILAS et al., 2002; TURK et al.,

2003; ŠTRITOF MAJETIĆ, 2010

2003; ŠTRITOF MAJETIĆ, 2010). The objective of this study is to present the results of ). The objective of this study is to present the results of investigations of leptospirosis in Croatia over the last 10 years and the ecological and investigations of leptospirosis in Croatia over the last 10 years and the ecological and epizootiological relationships among

epizootiological relationships among LeptospiraLeptospira serovar Australis and Bratislava and serovar Australis and Bratislava and various wild and domestic animal species.

various wild and domestic animal species. Materials and methods

Materials and methods

In a 10-year period, from 2002 to 2011, 20,157 sera samples and 984 kidneys of wild In a 10-year period, from 2002 to 2011, 20,157 sera samples and 984 kidneys of wild and domestic animals were collected or received and tested for leptospirosis (Table 1) and domestic animals were collected or received and tested for leptospirosis (Table 1) at the Laboratory for Leptospirosis of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of at the Laboratory for Leptospirosis of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb.

Zagreb.

Sera samples of 19,732 horses were taken by local veterinary practitioners across Sera samples of 19,732 horses were taken by local veterinary practitioners across Croatia, as part of routine measures of leptospirosis control, ordered by the Veterinary Croatia, as part of routine measures of leptospirosis control, ordered by the Veterinary Directory of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Croatia. Wild boars and foxes Directory of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Croatia. Wild boars and foxes were trapped during regular hunting seasons throughout northwest Croatia. The blood were trapped during regular hunting seasons throughout northwest Croatia. The blood

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samples of wild boars were taken from the heart, immediately after shooting and from samples of wild boars were taken from the heart, immediately after shooting and from red foxes after necropsy and testing for rabies at the Croatia Veterinary Institute. A total of red foxes after necropsy and testing for rabies at the Croatia Veterinary Institute. A total of 215 sera from wild boars (

215 sera from wild boars (Sus scrofaSus scrofa) and 59 of red foxes () and 59 of red foxes (Vulpes vulpesVulpes vulpes) from northwest ) from northwest Croatia were collected. Serum samples from 151 dogs were submitted to the Laboratory Croatia were collected. Serum samples from 151 dogs were submitted to the Laboratory for Leptospirosis, during a period of four years. The majority of samples originated from for Leptospirosis, during a period of four years. The majority of samples originated from dogs with some form of clinical disease, mostly hepato-renal lesions.

dogs with some form of clinical disease, mostly hepato-renal lesions. Table 1. Samples of animals collected for testing to leptospirosis Table 1. Samples of animals collected for testing to leptospirosis

Animal Sample Blood Kidney Horse 19732 -Wild boar 215 215 Red fox 59 59 Small rodents - 710 Dog 151 -Total 20157 984

Serological tests were conducted by the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) Serological tests were conducted by the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) ((DIKKEN and KMETY, 1978; HARTSKEERL et al., 2006DIKKEN and KMETY, 1978; HARTSKEERL et al., 2006) with 12 ) with 12 L. interrogans L. interrogans serovars: serovars: Grippotyphosa, Sejroe, Australis, Pomona, Canicola, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Tarassovi, Grippotyphosa, Sejroe, Australis, Pomona, Canicola, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Tarassovi, Saxkoebing, Ballum, Bataviae, Poi and Hardjo. In 2010 sv Bratislava was added to Saxkoebing, Ballum, Bataviae, Poi and Hardjo. In 2010 sv Bratislava was added to the standard panel of antigens. Blood sera were examined at a basic dilution of 1:100 the standard panel of antigens. Blood sera were examined at a basic dilution of 1:100 for listed

for listed LeptospiraLeptospira serovars, whereas positive sera were examined for corresponding serovars, whereas positive sera were examined for corresponding Leptospira

Leptospira serovars up to a serovars up to a fifi nal dilution titre of 50% agglutination. Microagglutination nal dilution titre of 50% agglutination. Microagglutination antibody titre ≥1:100 was considered as an indicator of earlier infection. If the serum was antibody titre ≥1:100 was considered as an indicator of earlier infection. If the serum was positive for two or more

positive for two or more LeptospiraLeptospira serovars, the serovar with the highest antibody titre serovars, the serovar with the highest antibody titre was considered as the infective serovar. Whilst evaluating these fi ndings, the likelihood was considered as the infective serovar. Whilst evaluating these fi ndings, the likelihood was discovered that occasional cross-reactivity among serovars may result in an equal or was discovered that occasional cross-reactivity among serovars may result in an equal or even higher antibody titre (

even higher antibody titre (MODRIMODRIĆĆ et al., 1985 et al., 1985). ). For the purpose of

For the purpose of LeptospiraLeptospira isolation, kidney tissue was immediately inoculated isolation, kidney tissue was immediately inoculated into home made Korthof’s medium (

into home made Korthof’s medium (FAINE et al., 1999FAINE et al., 1999) and sampled for DNA extraction. ) and sampled for DNA extraction. Positive cultures were subcultured in Korthof’s medium until they reached stable growth, Positive cultures were subcultured in Korthof’s medium until they reached stable growth, then subcultured to Ellinghausen-McCullogh-Johnson-Harris (EMJH) liquid medium then subcultured to Ellinghausen-McCullogh-Johnson-Harris (EMJH) liquid medium ((ELLINGHAUSEN and McCULLELLINGHAUSEN and McCULLOUGH, 1965; JOHNSON and HARRIS, 1967) and grown to obtain a density of 2-4×108 leptospires per millilitre, suitable for serological and eptospires per millilitre, suitable for serological and

molecular identifi cation procedures. molecular identifi cation procedures.

To identify the obtained isolates to the serogroup level, the microscopic agglutination To identify the obtained isolates to the serogroup level, the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) was performed, following the standard procedure, using a panel of 18 rabbit test (MAT) was performed, following the standard procedure, using a panel of 18 rabbit

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anti-anti-LeptospiraLeptospira reference antisera ( reference antisera (DIKKEN and KMETY, 1978DIKKEN and KMETY, 1978). The reference rabbit ). The reference rabbit antisera used in this study were from the Koninklijk Instituut voor de Tropen (KIT), antisera used in this study were from the Koninklijk Instituut voor de Tropen (KIT), Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Reference strains and isolates were grown at 30 °C Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Reference strains and isolates were grown at 30 °C on EMJH medium and harvested by centrifugation during the late logarithmic phase. on EMJH medium and harvested by centrifugation during the late logarithmic phase. Genomic DNA from animal kidneys and

Genomic DNA from animal kidneys and LeptospiraLeptospira isolate cultures was extracted using isolate cultures was extracted using a QIAamp DNA mini kit (Qiagen, Hilden, Germany) according to the manufacturer’s a QIAamp DNA mini kit (Qiagen, Hilden, Germany) according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and stored at -20 °C.

instructions, and stored at -20 °C.

Polymerase chain reaction was performed on all obtained isolates Polymerase chain reaction was performed on all obtained isolates and kidneys of related animals with three primer pair sets. PCR with and kidneys of related animals with three primer pair sets. PCR with

primers LeptoA (5’-GGCGGCGCGTCTTAAACATG-3’) and LeptoB

primers LeptoA (5’-GGCGGCGCGTCTTAAACATG-3’) and LeptoB (5’-TTCCCCCCATTGAGCAAGATT-3’) as described by

(5’-TTCCCCCCATTGAGCAAGATT-3’) as described by MERIEN et al. (1992),MERIEN et al. (1992), was was used to confi rm the presence of

used to confi rm the presence of LeptospiraLeptospira in cultures and kidney tissue. Semi-nested in cultures and kidney tissue. Semi-nested PCR with two primer sets, L3 (5’-TGAGGGTTAAAACCCCCAAC-3’) and L4 PCR with two primer sets, L3 (5’-TGAGGGTTAAAACCCCCAAC-3’) and L4 (5’-GATTTTTCGGGTAAAGATT-3’) followed by L4 and Lepat2 (5’-TCACAT(CT) (5’-GATTTTTCGGGTAAAGATT-3’) followed by L4 and Lepat2 (5’-TCACAT(CT) GCTGCTTATTTT-3’) as described by

GCTGCTTATTTT-3’) as described by GRAVEKAMP et al. (1993GRAVEKAMP et al. (1993) was performed to ) was performed to confi rm the pathogenicity of the

confi rm the pathogenicity of the LeptospiraLeptospira present in cultures and kidney tissue. All present in cultures and kidney tissue. All products were electrophoresed in 1% agarose gel and compared to molecular size marker. products were electrophoresed in 1% agarose gel and compared to molecular size marker. Primers were synthesized by Tib Molbiol, Berlin, Germany.

Primers were synthesized by Tib Molbiol, Berlin, Germany.

Subsequent typing of the isolates to the serovar level was performed by pulsed-fi eld Subsequent typing of the isolates to the serovar level was performed by pulsed-fi eld gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Preparation of agarose plugs was performed as described by gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Preparation of agarose plugs was performed as described by GALLOWAY and LEVETT (2008)

GALLOWAY and LEVETT (2008). Genomic DNA of isolates from serogroups Pomona and . Genomic DNA of isolates from serogroups Pomona and Grippotyphosa was restricted with endonuclease

Grippotyphosa was restricted with endonuclease NotNotI and subjected to PFGE for 18 hours I and subjected to PFGE for 18 hours at 14 ºC, with circulating 0.5X TBE buffer. Electrophoresis conditions were as follows: at 14 ºC, with circulating 0.5X TBE buffer. Electrophoresis conditions were as follows: switch times of 2.16 and 35.07 seconds, angle of 120 ºC, gradient of 6V/cm, temperature switch times of 2.16 and 35.07 seconds, angle of 120 ºC, gradient of 6V/cm, temperature of 14 ºC, and linear ramping factor. Genomic DNA of isolates from serogroup Australis of 14 ºC, and linear ramping factor. Genomic DNA of isolates from serogroup Australis was restricted, with endonuclease

was restricted, with endonuclease SgrASgrAI, and subjected to PFGE for 22 hours at 14 ºC, I, and subjected to PFGE for 22 hours at 14 ºC, with a circulating 0.5X TBE buffer. Electrophoresis conditions were as follows: switch with a circulating 0.5X TBE buffer. Electrophoresis conditions were as follows: switch times of 5 and 30 seconds, angle of 120 º, gradient of 6 V/cm, temperature of 14 ºC, and times of 5 and 30 seconds, angle of 120 º, gradient of 6 V/cm, temperature of 14 ºC, and linear ramping factor. Gels were stained with ethidium bromide and analysed by the Gel linear ramping factor. Gels were stained with ethidium bromide and analysed by the Gel Doc 2000 System (Bio-Rad Laboratories, Richmond, California, USA).

Doc 2000 System (Bio-Rad Laboratories, Richmond, California, USA). Results

Results

The results of the investigations are shown in Tables 2-3. The results of the investigations are shown in Tables 2-3. Table 2 shows the

Table 2 shows the LeptospiraLeptospira antibodies antibodies fifi ndings in the sera of the examined animals. ndings in the sera of the examined animals. Out of 19,732 sera samples of horses 3876 (19.64%) had agglutinating antibodies against Out of 19,732 sera samples of horses 3876 (19.64%) had agglutinating antibodies against one or more

one or more LeptospiraLeptospira serovars. The highest seroprevalence for horses were found for serovars. The highest seroprevalence for horses were found for sv Bratislava in 1093 (28.20%) samples, sv Pomona in 574 (14.81%) and sv Australis sv Bratislava in 1093 (28.20%) samples, sv Pomona in 574 (14.81%) and sv Australis in 479 (12.36%). In wild boars, out of 215 samples 75 (34.88%) were positive and the in 479 (12.36%). In wild boars, out of 215 samples 75 (34.88%) were positive and the

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most prevalent serovars were sv Australis with 28 (37.33%) samples, sv Grippotyphosa most prevalent serovars were sv Australis with 28 (37.33%) samples, sv Grippotyphosa with eight (10.67%) and sv Tarassovi with fi ve (6.67%). From 170 pig sera we found with eight (10.67%) and sv Tarassovi with fi ve (6.67%). From 170 pig sera we found 66 (38.82%) positive animals. The most prevalent serovars were sv Australis with 23 66 (38.82%) positive animals. The most prevalent serovars were sv Australis with 23 (34.85%) samples, sv Ballum with nine (13.64%) and sv Saxkoebing with four (6.06%). (34.85%) samples, sv Ballum with nine (13.64%) and sv Saxkoebing with four (6.06%). In red foxes, out of 59 sera samples 34 (57.60%) were positive for leptospirosis. We found In red foxes, out of 59 sera samples 34 (57.60%) were positive for leptospirosis. We found the highest titre for sv Australis in 17 (50.00%), for sv Sejroe and Saxkoebing in three the highest titre for sv Australis in 17 (50.00%), for sv Sejroe and Saxkoebing in three (8.82%) each and sv Grippotyphosa in two (5.88%). Out of 151 sera samples of dogs, 26 (8.82%) each and sv Grippotyphosa in two (5.88%). Out of 151 sera samples of dogs, 26 (17.22%) had antibodies for

(17.22%) had antibodies for LeptospiraLeptospira serovars. The highest seroprevalence was for sv serovars. The highest seroprevalence was for sv Pomona in eight (30.77%) samples, sv Grippotyphosa in fi ve (19.23%) and sv Australis Pomona in eight (30.77%) samples, sv Grippotyphosa in fi ve (19.23%) and sv Australis and Icterohaemorrhagiae in four (15.38%) each. The prevalence of other

and Icterohaemorrhagiae in four (15.38%) each. The prevalence of other LeptospiraLeptospira serovars for the examined animals is presented in Table 2.

serovars for the examined animals is presented in Table 2. Table 2. Serological fi ndings of

Table 2. Serological fi ndings of LeptospiraLeptospira antibodies in different animal species antibodies in different animal species

Leptospira serovar

Animal

Horse Wild boar Pig Red Fox Dog

No. of tested

sera: 19732 No. of tested sera: 215 No. of tested sera: 170 No. of tested sera: 59 No. of tested sera: 151 Positive

sera % Positive sera % Positive sera % Positive sera % Positive sera %

Grippotyphosa 353 9.11 8 10.67 2 3.03 2 5.88 5 19.23 Sejroe 158 4.08 1 1.33 - - 3 8.82 - -Australis 479 12.36 28 37.33 23 34.85 17 50.00 4 15.38 Bratislava 1093 28.20 - - - -Pomona 574 14.81 3 4.0 3 4.55 - - 8 30.77 Canicola 65 1.68 - - - -Icterohaemorrhagiae 416 10.73 2 2.67 1 1.52 3 8.82 4 15.38 Tarassovi 18 0.46 5 6.67 - - - -Mozdok 2 0.05 - - - -Saxkoebing 153 3.95 1 1.33 4 6.06 1 2.94 1 3.85 Ballum 1 0.03 2 2.67 9 13.64 - - - -Bataviae 3 0.08 1 1.33 - - - -Poi 4 0.10 2 2.67 1 1.52 - - - -Hardjo Prajitno 7 0.18 2 3.03 - - 1 3.85 Undetermined 550 14.20 22 29.33 21 31.82 8 23.53 3 11.54 Total 3876 19.64 75 34.88 66 38.82 34 57.6 26 17.22

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Table 3. Isloation of

Table 3. Isloation of LeptospiraLeptospira spp. from the kidneys of different species of small rodents spp. from the kidneys of different species of small rodents

Genomic species, serologic group and serovar of isolated Leptospira Animal Apodemus fl avicollis Apodemus sylvaticus Apodemus agrarius Myodes

glareolus Other species

No. of

samples: 262 samples: 122No. of samples: 96No. of samples: 195No. of

No. of samples: 35 Positive culture % Positive culture % Positive culture % Positive culture % Positive culture % L. borgpeterseni, Sejroe, Saxkoebing 5 15.62 2 9.09 - - - -L. kirschneri, Bataviae, Bataviae - - - - 2 6.9 - - - -L. kirschneri, Grippotyphosa, Dadas 1 3.13 - - - 1 50 L. kirschneri, Grippotyphosa, Grippotyphosa-FR 1 3.13 - - - -L. kirschneri, Pomona, Mozdok 1 3.13 1 4.55 8 27.59 - - 1 50 L. kirschneri, Pomona* 1 3.13 1 4.55 - - - -L. interrogans, Australis, Bratislava 13 40.63 7 31.82 - - - -L. interrogans, Australis* - - 6 27.27 - - - -L. interrogans, Australis, Muenchen-FR 4 12.5 3 13.64 - - - -Undetermined 6 18.75 2 9.09 19 65.52 3 100 - -Total 32 12.21 22 18.03 29 30.21 3 1.54 2 5.71

* Isolates in procedure of serovar determination * Isolates in procedure of serovar determination

Table 3 presents the results of

Table 3 presents the results of LeptospiraLeptospira isolation from renoculture in relation to isolation from renoculture in relation to the examined animal species. Out of 262 kidney samples taken from the yellow-necked the examined animal species. Out of 262 kidney samples taken from the yellow-necked

fi eld mouse (

fi eld mouse (ApodemusApodemus fl avicollisfl avicollis) ) LeptospiraeLeptospirae were isolated in 32 (12.21%) samples were isolated in 32 (12.21%) samples including 13 (40.63%) isolates of

including 13 (40.63%) isolates of L. interrogansL. interrogans, serogorup Australis, sv Bratislava; , serogorup Australis, sv Bratislava; fifi ve ve (15.62%) isolates of

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isolates of

isolates of L. interrogansL. interrogans, serogroup Australis, sv Muenchen-FR. From 122 kidney , serogroup Australis, sv Muenchen-FR. From 122 kidney samples of the long-tailed fi eld mouse (

samples of the long-tailed fi eld mouse (Apodemus sylvaticusApodemus sylvaticus) 22 (18.03%) were positive ) 22 (18.03%) were positive for

for LeptospiraLeptospira. The most frequently isolated . The most frequently isolated LeptospiraLeptospira were: seven (31.82%) isolates of were: seven (31.82%) isolates of L. interrogans

L. interrogans, serogorup Australis, sv Bratislava; six (27.27%) isolates of , serogorup Australis, sv Bratislava; six (27.27%) isolates of L. interrogansL. interrogans, , serogroup Australis, undetermined serovar; three (13.64%) isolates of

serogroup Australis, undetermined serovar; three (13.64%) isolates of L. interrogansL. interrogans, , serogroup Australis, sv Muenchen-FR. Out of 96 kidney samples of the black-striped fi eld serogroup Australis, sv Muenchen-FR. Out of 96 kidney samples of the black-striped fi eld mouse (

mouse (Apodemus agrariusApodemus agrarius) in 29 (30.21%) we isolated ) in 29 (30.21%) we isolated LeptospiraLeptospira. The most frequent . The most frequent serovars were:

serovars were: L. kirschneriL. kirschneri, serogroup Pomona, sv Mozdok in eight (27.59%) samples, serogroup Pomona, sv Mozdok in eight (27.59%) samples, , L. kirschneri

L. kirschneri, serogroup Bataviae, sv Bataviae in two (6.9%) samples while 19 (65.52%) , serogroup Bataviae, sv Bataviae in two (6.9%) samples while 19 (65.52%) isolates are still undetermined. The prevalence of other

isolates are still undetermined. The prevalence of other LeptospiraLeptospira serovars in examined serovars in examined animals is presented in Table 3. We did not isolate

animals is presented in Table 3. We did not isolate LeptospiraLeptospira from kidney samples of from kidney samples of wild boars and red foxes.

wild boars and red foxes. Discussion

Discussion

In the long history of leptospirosis investigations in Croatia, several authors have been In the long history of leptospirosis investigations in Croatia, several authors have been able to establish a relationship between certain

able to establish a relationship between certain LeptospiraLeptospira serovars and their maintaining serovars and their maintaining hosts. Previous epizootiological studies in Croatia suggest a high degree of adaptation hosts. Previous epizootiological studies in Croatia suggest a high degree of adaptation between rats (

between rats (Rattus norvegicusRattus norvegicus) and sv Icterohaemorrhagiae, the house mouse () and sv Icterohaemorrhagiae, the house mouse (Mus Mus musculus

musculus) and sv Sejroe, the common vole () and sv Sejroe, the common vole (Microtus arvalisMicrotus arvalis) and sv Grippotyphosa, ) and sv Grippotyphosa, the black-striped fi eld mouse (

the black-striped fi eld mouse (Apodemus agrariusApodemus agrarius) and sv Pomona, the yellow-necked ) and sv Pomona, the yellow-necked

fi eld mouse (

fi eld mouse (ApodemusApodemus fl avicollisfl avicollis) and sv Saxkoebing () and sv Saxkoebing (ZAHARIJA et al., 1982; BORZAHARIJA et al., 1982; BORČČIIĆĆ

et al., 1986; MILAS et al., 2002; TURK et. al., 2003; ŠTRITOF MAJETIĆ, 2010

et al., 1986; MILAS et al., 2002; TURK et. al., 2003; ŠTRITOF MAJETIĆ, 2010). Considering ). Considering the fact that distribution of

the fact that distribution of LeptospiraLeptospira serovars and the spectrum of maintaining and serovars and the spectrum of maintaining and accidental reservoirs is very wide and heterogeneous, and they are liable to change accidental reservoirs is very wide and heterogeneous, and they are liable to change over time, the aim of this study is to present results of investigations of the ecological over time, the aim of this study is to present results of investigations of the ecological and epizootiological relations between

and epizootiological relations between LeptospiraLeptospira sv Australis and sv Bratislava and sv Australis and sv Bratislava and various wild and domestic animal species. The results of our study suggest that the main various wild and domestic animal species. The results of our study suggest that the main reservoirs for sv Australis and Bratislava are myomorphous mammals, especially the reservoirs for sv Australis and Bratislava are myomorphous mammals, especially the yellow-necked fi eld mouse and the long-tailed fi eld mouse. The prevalence of infection yellow-necked fi eld mouse and the long-tailed fi eld mouse. The prevalence of infection with these serovars, presented in Table 3, shows that sv Bratislava is present in 40.63% with these serovars, presented in Table 3, shows that sv Bratislava is present in 40.63% Leptospira

Leptospira infections in the yellow-necked infections in the yellow-necked fifi eld mouse and in 31. 82% eld mouse and in 31. 82% LeptospiraLeptospira infections in the long-tailed fi eld mouse. It is also obvious that prevalence of infection for infections in the long-tailed fi eld mouse. It is also obvious that prevalence of infection for isolates of

isolates of L. interrogansL. interrogans, serogroup Australis, undetermined serovar, is in second place , serogroup Australis, undetermined serovar, is in second place (27.27%) in long-tailed fi eld mouse and the prevalence of infection for sv Muenchen-FR (27.27%) in long-tailed fi eld mouse and the prevalence of infection for sv Muenchen-FR is in third place in the long-tailed fi eld mouse (13.64%) and in the yellow-necked fi eld is in third place in the long-tailed fi eld mouse (13.64%) and in the yellow-necked fi eld mouse (12.5%). Considering these results we may conclude that serovars from serogroup mouse (12.5%). Considering these results we may conclude that serovars from serogroup Australis are dominant in

Australis are dominant in LeptospiraLeptospira infection in the mentioned species. Our infection in the mentioned species. Our fifi ndings are ndings are compatible with previous results of

compatible with previous results of MILAS et al. (2002), TURK and al. (2003)MILAS et al. (2002), TURK and al. (2003) and and ŠTRITOF-

ŠTRITOF-MAJETIĆ (2010)

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fi eld mouse for

fi eld mouse for L. interrogansL. interrogans, serogroup Australis, sv Lora. Although 19 isolates are in , serogroup Australis, sv Lora. Although 19 isolates are in the process of identifi cation, the results of

the process of identifi cation, the results of LeptospiraLeptospira isolation in the black-striped isolation in the black-striped fifi eld eld mouse (

mouse (Apodemus agrariusApodemus agrarius) con) confifi rms previous investigations by rms previous investigations by BORBORČČIIĆĆ et al. (1986) et al. (1986) and and

ŠTRITOF MAJETIĆ (2010)

ŠTRITOF MAJETIĆ (2010) that this species is a reservoir for serovars from the serogroup that this species is a reservoir for serovars from the serogroup Pomona.

Pomona.

The results of our serological investigations of leptospirosis in horses demonstrate The results of our serological investigations of leptospirosis in horses demonstrate that the most prevalent

that the most prevalent LeptospiraLeptospira serovars are sv Bratislava (28.20%), sv Pomona serovars are sv Bratislava (28.20%), sv Pomona (14.81%) and sv Australis (12.36%). These results are in concordance with the fact that (14.81%) and sv Australis (12.36%). These results are in concordance with the fact that horses are a maintaining host for sv Bratislava and may be for sv Australis and sv Pomona horses are a maintaining host for sv Bratislava and may be for sv Australis and sv Pomona ((ELLIS et al., 1983; KISTON-PIGOTT and PRESCOTT, 1987; VAN DEN INGH et al., 1989; ELLIS et al., 1983; KISTON-PIGOTT and PRESCOTT, 1987; VAN DEN INGH et al., 1989;

WILLIAMS et al., 1994; CVETNIĆ et al., 2004; ROCHA et al., 2004; BÄVERUD et al., 2009

WILLIAMS et al., 1994; CVETNIĆ et al., 2004; ROCHA et al., 2004; BÄVERUD et al., 2009). ).

We can assume that during evolution some serovars of

We can assume that during evolution some serovars of LeptospiraLeptospira were adapted from were adapted from small rodents to new maintaining hosts - horses. This process is still going on because small rodents to new maintaining hosts - horses. This process is still going on because horses live in a different environment, which usually combines pasture and stable, sharing horses live in a different environment, which usually combines pasture and stable, sharing these biotopes with a number of small rodents.

these biotopes with a number of small rodents.

The results of seroepizootiology of leptospirosis in wild boars demonstrate that The results of seroepizootiology of leptospirosis in wild boars demonstrate that the most prevalent serovars are sv Australis (37.33%), sv Grippotyphosa (10.67%), sv the most prevalent serovars are sv Australis (37.33%), sv Grippotyphosa (10.67%), sv Tarassovi (6.67%) and sv Pomona (4.0%). Considering the food composition, living Tarassovi (6.67%) and sv Pomona (4.0%). Considering the food composition, living habits and large migration radius of wild boars, it may be concluded that there is habits and large migration radius of wild boars, it may be concluded that there is a great ability of transfer of

a great ability of transfer of LeptospiraeLeptospirae from small rodents to wild boars, especially from small rodents to wild boars, especially during wallowing in

during wallowing in LeptospiraLeptospira contaminated water and mud. The role of wild boars contaminated water and mud. The role of wild boars in maintaining

in maintaining LeptospiraLeptospira in the environment is still unclear, but recent investigations in the environment is still unclear, but recent investigations suggest that they could serve as a reservoir host for sv Bratislava, Pomona and Australis suggest that they could serve as a reservoir host for sv Bratislava, Pomona and Australis ((FIGAROLLI et al., 2012; PINTORE et al., 2012FIGAROLLI et al., 2012; PINTORE et al., 2012). ).

Testing of 170 serum samples of domestic swine to

Testing of 170 serum samples of domestic swine to LeptospiraLeptospira antibodies showed antibodies showed that the most prevalent serovars were sv Australis (34.85%), sv Ballum (13.64%), sv that the most prevalent serovars were sv Australis (34.85%), sv Ballum (13.64%), sv Saxkoebing (6.06%) and sv Pomona (4.55%). In analysis of these results the fact must Saxkoebing (6.06%) and sv Pomona (4.55%). In analysis of these results the fact must be taken into consideration that these swine were breeding mostly on pastures where be taken into consideration that these swine were breeding mostly on pastures where they were exposed to an environment contaminated by the urine of free living small they were exposed to an environment contaminated by the urine of free living small rodents. We consider that domestic pigs may only be incidental hosts for sv Australis. rodents. We consider that domestic pigs may only be incidental hosts for sv Australis. The latest reports of the seroepizootiology of leptospirosis in pigs in Croatia show that The latest reports of the seroepizootiology of leptospirosis in pigs in Croatia show that the most prevalent serovars are Pomona, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Sejroe, Australis and the most prevalent serovars are Pomona, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Sejroe, Australis and Grippotyphosa (

Grippotyphosa (RARAČČIIĆĆ et al., 2012 et al., 2012). In the past, due to traditional free ranging breeding ). In the past, due to traditional free ranging breeding of pigs in some parts of Croatia, sv Australis was dominant, but because of the risk of of pigs in some parts of Croatia, sv Australis was dominant, but because of the risk of spreading classical swine fever, free ranging breeding was forbidden in 2005. Therefore spreading classical swine fever, free ranging breeding was forbidden in 2005. Therefore domestic pigs probably cannot be a reservoir host for sv Bratislava and Australis in the domestic pigs probably cannot be a reservoir host for sv Bratislava and Australis in the future.

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For the purpose of investigating leptospirosis in red foxes we tested 59 kidney and For the purpose of investigating leptospirosis in red foxes we tested 59 kidney and blood samples. We were not able to isolate

blood samples. We were not able to isolate LeptospiraeLeptospirae from kidneys, but we found from kidneys, but we found antibodies to 11

antibodies to 11 LeptospiraLeptospira serovars in 34 (57.6%) of 59 red fox sera. The highest antibody serovars in 34 (57.6%) of 59 red fox sera. The highest antibody titres were to serovar Australis in 17 (50.0%) foxes, Sejroe and Icterohaemorrhagiae each titres were to serovar Australis in 17 (50.0%) foxes, Sejroe and Icterohaemorrhagiae each in three (8.82%) foxes, Grippotyphosa in two (5.88%) foxes and Saxkoebing in one fox in three (8.82%) foxes, Grippotyphosa in two (5.88%) foxes and Saxkoebing in one fox (2.94%). Small mammals are important autumn and winter food sources for red foxes (2.94%). Small mammals are important autumn and winter food sources for red foxes and other wild carnivores. The amount of small mammals in the diet of foxes ranges from and other wild carnivores. The amount of small mammals in the diet of foxes ranges from 27% in summer to 37% in winter (

27% in summer to 37% in winter (SCOTT, 1943SCOTT, 1943). Considering its food habits, the role of ). Considering its food habits, the role of the red fox as a maintaining

the red fox as a maintaining LeptospiraLeptospira reservoir, especially for sv Australis, in the natural reservoir, especially for sv Australis, in the natural foci of leptospirosis, is still a matter of question.

foci of leptospirosis, is still a matter of question.

Of 151 dog sera, 26 (17.22%) were positive to leptospirosis. Serovars, against Of 151 dog sera, 26 (17.22%) were positive to leptospirosis. Serovars, against which the sera tested agglutinated in the highest titre were as follows: Pomona in eight which the sera tested agglutinated in the highest titre were as follows: Pomona in eight samples (30.77%), Grippotyphosa in fi ve (19.23%), Icterohaemorrhagiae and Australis samples (30.77%), Grippotyphosa in fi ve (19.23%), Icterohaemorrhagiae and Australis in four (15.38%), each. Traditionally, serovars Icterohaemorrhagiae and Canicola were in four (15.38%), each. Traditionally, serovars Icterohaemorrhagiae and Canicola were incriminated in most cases of canine leptospirosis (

incriminated in most cases of canine leptospirosis (FAINE et al., 1999FAINE et al., 1999). However, in the last ). However, in the last decade, the

decade, the L. interrogans L. interrogans serovars Bratislava and Grippotyphosa have been identiserovars Bratislava and Grippotyphosa have been identififi ed ed as the most prevalent in Italy (

as the most prevalent in Italy (SCANZIANI et al., 2002SCANZIANI et al., 2002), Grippotyphosa, Saxkoebing ), Grippotyphosa, Saxkoebing and Icterohaemorrhagiae in Germany (

and Icterohaemorrhagiae in Germany (GEISEN et al., 2007GEISEN et al., 2007) and Australis, Bratislava, ) and Australis, Bratislava, Grippotyphosa and Pomona in Switzerland (

Grippotyphosa and Pomona in Switzerland (FRANCEY, 2010FRANCEY, 2010). Dogs are often directly ). Dogs are often directly or indirectly exposed to environments contaminated by the urine of various small rodent or indirectly exposed to environments contaminated by the urine of various small rodent species and changes in the etiology of dog leptospirosis depend directly on the etiology species and changes in the etiology of dog leptospirosis depend directly on the etiology of leptospirosis in small rodents.

of leptospirosis in small rodents.

Comparing our results with previous investigations of leptospirosis in Croatia, we Comparing our results with previous investigations of leptospirosis in Croatia, we can see that serovar Australis was isolated from humans (

can see that serovar Australis was isolated from humans (ZAHARIJA, 1955ZAHARIJA, 1955), and from ), and from a clinically healthy cat (

a clinically healthy cat (MODRIMODRIĆĆ, 1978, 1978). ). BORBORČČIIĆĆ et al. (1982) et al. (1982) isolated serovar Australis isolated serovar Australis from four species of small mammals (

from four species of small mammals (Apodemus agrariusApodemus agrarius, , A. sylvaticusA. sylvaticus, , A. fl avicollisA. fl avicollis and

and Clethrionomys glareolusClethrionomys glareolus). ). MODRIMODRIĆĆ and HUBER (1993) and HUBER (1993) found antibodies for serovars found antibodies for serovars Australis, Sejroe, Canicola and Icterohaemorrhagiae in European

Australis, Sejroe, Canicola and Icterohaemorrhagiae in European brown bears (brown bears (Ursus Ursus arctos

arctos). ). SLAVICA et al. (2007)SLAVICA et al. (2007) reported about incidence of leptospiral antibodies in different reported about incidence of leptospiral antibodies in different game species over a 10-year period (1996-2005) in Croatia. In red deer (

game species over a 10-year period (1996-2005) in Croatia. In red deer (Cervus elaphusCervus elaphus) ) the most prevalent serovars were Pomona and Ballum, in wild boar Australis and Pomona, the most prevalent serovars were Pomona and Ballum, in wild boar Australis and Pomona, in brown bear Icterohaemorrhagiae, Australis and Sejroe, and in red fox Australis, Sejroe in brown bear Icterohaemorrhagiae, Australis and Sejroe, and in red fox Australis, Sejroe and Icterohaemorrhagiae. Considering the living and feeding habits of wild boars, red and Icterohaemorrhagiae. Considering the living and feeding habits of wild boars, red foxes and brown bears, we can say that these species have a great ability of infection with foxes and brown bears, we can say that these species have a great ability of infection with Leptospira

Leptospira. Knowing the etiology of leptospirosis in small rodents in Croatia, it is not . Knowing the etiology of leptospirosis in small rodents in Croatia, it is not surprising that serovar Australis is consequently the most prevalent serovar in

surprising that serovar Australis is consequently the most prevalent serovar in LeptospiraLeptospira infection in carnivore or omnivore wild species in Croatia. Serum samples of red foxes infection in carnivore or omnivore wild species in Croatia. Serum samples of red foxes and brown bears with highest antibodies titers against serovars Icterohaemorrhagiae and and brown bears with highest antibodies titers against serovars Icterohaemorrhagiae and

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Sejroe may be result of infection from rats (

Sejroe may be result of infection from rats (Ratus norvergicusRatus norvergicus) and house mice () and house mice (Mus Mus musculus

musculus), because red foxes and brown bears very often feed in trash yards and suburban ), because red foxes and brown bears very often feed in trash yards and suburban regions. Recent investigations of the seroepidemiology of leptospirosis in dogs in Croatia regions. Recent investigations of the seroepidemiology of leptospirosis in dogs in Croatia demonstrate that the serovars Australis, Grippotyphosa, Canicola and Pomona were the demonstrate that the serovars Australis, Grippotyphosa, Canicola and Pomona were the most prevalent in dogs in the Slatina and Virovitica regions (

most prevalent in dogs in the Slatina and Virovitica regions (LAZILAZIĆĆ, 2011; MAJETI, 2011; MAJETIĆĆ, , 2011

2011). Changes in the etiology of leptospirosis in dogs kept in urban regions in Croatia ). Changes in the etiology of leptospirosis in dogs kept in urban regions in Croatia could be explained by the results of long term deratization in Croatia, which have led to could be explained by the results of long term deratization in Croatia, which have led to a decrease in the population of rats and house mice.

a decrease in the population of rats and house mice.

Considering the results of our and previous investigations of leptospirosis in Croatia Considering the results of our and previous investigations of leptospirosis in Croatia we can conclude that

we can conclude that LeptospiraLeptospira serovars from the serogroup Australis, sv Bratislava, sv serovars from the serogroup Australis, sv Bratislava, sv Australis and sv Lora are maintained among wild life animal species. It was undoubtedly Australis and sv Lora are maintained among wild life animal species. It was undoubtedly demonstrated that myomorphous small rodent yellow-necked fi eld mice maintain the demonstrated that myomorphous small rodent yellow-necked fi eld mice maintain the reservoir host for

reservoir host for L. interrogansL. interrogans, serogroup Australis, sv Bratislava, , serogroup Australis, sv Bratislava, L. interrogansL. interrogans, , serogroup Australis, sv Muenchen-FR and

serogroup Australis, sv Muenchen-FR and L. interrogansL. interrogans, serogroup Australis, sv Lora , serogroup Australis, sv Lora and the long-tailed fi eld mouse for

and the long-tailed fi eld mouse for L. interrogansL. interrogans, serogroup Australis, sv Bratislava , serogroup Australis, sv Bratislava and

and L. interrogans L. interrogans, serogroup Australis, sv Muenchen-FR. It is known that the same , serogroup Australis, sv Muenchen-FR. It is known that the same Leptospira

Leptospira serovar could have more maintaining hosts in one biotope and the results of serovar could have more maintaining hosts in one biotope and the results of our and previous seroepizootiological studies of leptospirosis in wild animal species in our and previous seroepizootiological studies of leptospirosis in wild animal species in Croatia strongly support the conclusion that wild carnivores and omnivores, such as the Croatia strongly support the conclusion that wild carnivores and omnivores, such as the red fox, wild boar and brown bear, could also be maintaining reservoir hosts for serovars red fox, wild boar and brown bear, could also be maintaining reservoir hosts for serovars from serogroup Australis. The conclusion that

from serogroup Australis. The conclusion that LeptospiraLeptospira serovars from the serogroup serovars from the serogroup Australis are circulating among wild animal species in Croatia is supplemented by the Australis are circulating among wild animal species in Croatia is supplemented by the fact that we found a great seroprevalence of these serovars in the sera of domestic animal fact that we found a great seroprevalence of these serovars in the sera of domestic animal species such as horses and pigs, which share the same biotope as wild species. Domestic species such as horses and pigs, which share the same biotope as wild species. Domestic animal species, such as pigs, cows, sheep and goats, which are kept in stables, isolated animal species, such as pigs, cows, sheep and goats, which are kept in stables, isolated from wild small rodents, could be only incidental hosts for serovars from the serogroup from wild small rodents, could be only incidental hosts for serovars from the serogroup Australis. Speculation that wild carnivores and omnivores could also be maintaining Australis. Speculation that wild carnivores and omnivores could also be maintaining hosts for

hosts for LeptospiraLeptospira serovars from the serogroup Australis in Croatia should be con serovars from the serogroup Australis in Croatia should be confifi rmed rmed in future by isolation from kidneys.

in future by isolation from kidneys. _______

Acknowledgements

We acknowledge the Ministry of Science, Education and Sport of the Republic of Croatia - project We acknowledge the Ministry of Science, Education and Sport of the Republic of Croatia - project 053-1430115-2116 that supported this work.

1430115-2116 that supported this work. References

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Received: 6 August 2012 Accepted: 17 April 2013

________________________________________________________________________________________ MILAS, Z., Z. ŠTRITOF MAJETIĆ, J. HABUŠ, V. MOJČEC PERKO, MILAS, Z., Z. ŠTRITOF MAJETIĆ, J. HABUŠ, V. MOJČEC PERKO, V. STAREŠINA, LJ. BARBIĆ, V. STEVANOVIĆ, M. PERHARIĆ, B. LJUBIĆ, V. STAREŠINA, LJ. BARBIĆ, V. STEVANOVIĆ, M. PERHARIĆ, B. LJUBIĆ, N. TURK:

N. TURK: Učestalost i održavanje Leptospira serovara Australis i Bratislava u domaćih i divljih životinja u Hrvatskoj. Vet. arhiv 83, 357-369, 2013.

SAŽETAK

U desetogodišnjem razdoblju, od 2002. do 2011. godine, 20157 uzoraka krvi i 984 bubrega divljih i domaćih životinja prikupljeno je i testirano na leptospirozu u Laboratoriju za leptospire Veterinarskog fakulteta Sveučilišta u Zagrebu. Od 19732 uzorka seruma konja 3876 (19,64%) imalo je aglutinirajuća protutijela protiv jednog ili više Leptospira serovara. Najveća seroprevalencija u konja bila je za sljedeće serovare: sv Bratislava, sv Pomona i sv Australis. U divljih svinja od 215 uzoraka, 75 (34,88%) je bilo pozitivno i najčešći serovari bili su sv Australis, sv Grippotyphosa i sv Tarassovi. Od 170 uzoraka seruma svinja pronašli smo 66 (38,82%) pozitivnih životinja. Najčešći serovari bili su sv Australis, sv Ballum i sv Saxkoebing. U crvenih lisica od 59 uzoraka seruma 34 (57,60%) je bilo pozitivno na leptospirozu. Najviši titar protutijela pronašli smo za sv Australis, sv Sejroe, sv Saxkoebing i sv Grippotyphosa. Od 151 uzorka seruma pasa 26 (17,22%) imalo je protutijela za Leptospira serovare. Najviša seroprevalencija bila je za sv Pomona, sv Grippotyphosa, sv Australis

i sv Icterohaemorrhagiae. Od 262 uzorka bubrega uzetih od žutogrlog miša (Apodemusfl avicollis) leptospire su izdvojene iz 32 (12,21%) uzorka uključujući 13 (40,63%) izolata L. interrogans, serološka skupina Australis,

sv Bratislava; pet (15.62%) izolata L. borgpeterseni, serološka skupina Sejroe, sv Saxkoebing; četiri (12,5%) izolata L. interrogans, serološka skupina Australis, sv Muenchen-FR. Iz 122 bubrega šumskog miša (Apodemus sylvaticus) 22 (18,03%) bilo je pozitivno na leptospire. Najčešće izdvojene leptospire bile su: sedam (31,82%)

izolata L. interrogans, serološka skupina Australis, sv Bratislava; šest (27,27%) izolata L. interrogans, serološka skupina Australis, nedeterminirani serovar, tri (13,64%) izolata L. interrogans, serološka skupina Australis,

sv Muenchen-FR. Od 96 uzoraka bubrega poljskog miša (Apodemus agrarius) iz 29 (30,21%) su izolirane leptospire. Najučestaliji serovari bili su: L. kirschneri, serološka skupina Pomona, sv Mozdok u osam (27,59%) uzoraka, L. kirschneri, serološka skupina Bataviae, sv Bataviae u dva (6,9%) uzorka, dok je 19 (65,52%) izolata

još uvijek nedeterminirano. Razmatrajući rezultate našeg i prethodnih istraživanja leptospiroze u Hrvatskoj možemo zaključiti da se Leptospira serovari iz serološke skupine Australis, sv Bratislava, sv Austraalis i sv

Lora, održavaju između divljih životinjskih vrsta. Rezultati naših i prethodnih istraživanja leptospiroze u divljih životinja u Hrvatskoj čvrsto podupiru zaključak da divlji mesožderi i svežderi kao crvena lisica, divlja svinja i smeđi medvjed također mogu biti održavajući domaćini za serovare Leptospira iz serološke skupine Australis.

Ključne riječi:Leptospira, Australis, Bratislava, rezervoari, Hrvatska

________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________

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