The Prevalence of Leptospira Serovars in African Giant Pouched Rats (Cricetomys spp.) from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

A study reveals that pathogenic Leptospira serovars are present in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), Tanzania, with 20% of African giant pouched rats testing positive via PCR. The research, conducted between July 2020 and December 2021, used microscopic agglutination tests (MAT) on blood sera and PCR on urine and kidney tissues to detect the pathogen. While MAT detected a lower prevalence at 6%, PCR identified a higher rate, indicating significant differences in indirect and direct detection methods. The findings underscore the importance of raising awareness about Leptospira serovars among NCA authorities and implementing management strategies, such as guided garbage disposal and limited rodent control, to mitigate potential risks to humans, domestic animals, and wildlife.

Kahangwa, P. N., Kitegile, A. S., Machang’u, R. S., Mhamphi, G. G., & Katakweba, A. S. (2024). The Prevalence of Leptospira Serovars in African Giant Pouched Rats (Cricetomys spp.) from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania. Zoonotic Diseases, 4(1), 37–48. https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis4010005