Human Leptospirosis Trends, the Netherlands, 1925–2008

• DOI: 10.3201/eid1903.111260
• Publication Date: 2013-01-29T18:11:34Z
• Authors: Marga G.A. Goris; Kimberly R. Boer; Tamara A.T.E. Duarte; Suzanne J. Kliffen; Rudy A. Hartskeerl
• Keywords: Adult; Male; diagnosis; Infectious and parasitic diseases; RC109-216; History, 21st Century; human leptospirosis; 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine; Leptospira spp.; Humans; Leptospirosis; Sex Distribution; bacteria; Netherlands; Incidence; R; History, 20th Century; travelers disease; 3. Good health; Synopsis; Medicine; epidemiology; Female

To increase knowledge of leptospirosis in the Netherlands and identify changing trends this disease over time, we analyzed historical passive surveillance reports for an 84-year period (1925-2008). We found that 2,553 mainly severe cases were diagnosed (average annual incidence rate 0.25 cases/100,000 population). The overall case-fatality patients with reported was 6.5% but decreased period, probably because improved treatment. Ninety percent male patients. Most autochthonous infections associated recreational exposures, 15.5% attributed to accidents resulted injury concomitant water contact. Since end 1950s, proportion imported gradually increased, reaching 53.1% total during 2005-2008. (80.1%) sporting adventurous vacation activities.