Rodent Density and Leptospira sp. Detection by qPCR in Pangkep, South Sulawesi
Keywords:
Leptospira, Leptospirosis, qPCR, Rodents, environmental healthAbstract
Background: Rodent reservoirs sustain leptospirosis transmission, but molecular surveillance data from South Sulawesi remain limited. Objective: To characterize rodent density, species composition, ectoparasites, and renal qPCR positivity for Leptospira sp. in three surveillance areas of Pangkajene and Kepulauan. Methods: A descriptive field-laboratory surveillance study was conducted in Bowong Cindea, Biringkassi, and Jollo during 2-6 September 2024. A total of 150 rodent traps were deployed across 75 households for three consecutive nights. Captured rats were identified morphometrically, examined for ectoparasites, and kidney samples were tested by real-time PCR. Proportions were summarized with Wilson 95% confidence intervals. Results: Twenty-one rats and six Suncus murinus were captured. The operational success-trap index was 8% in Bowong Cindea, 10% in Biringkassi, and 24% in Jollo, all above the 1% benchmark applied in 2024 surveillance. Rattus tanezumi comprised 57.1% and Rattus norvegicus 42.9% of rats. Leptospira sp. was detected by qPCR in 7/21 rats (33.3%; 95% CI 17.2-54.6), with positive results in every surveillance area. Conclusion: High rodent density and widespread qPCR positivity indicate sustained reservoir pressure and support integrated rodent control, environmental sanitation, human case detection, and repeated One Health surveillance.
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