Epidemiologic analysys of visceral canine leishmaniasis in the Federal District (2005-2022): investigation of risk factors and implications for public health
Epidemiology, Seroepidemiological Studies, Visceral Leishmaniasis, Dogs, Risk Factors, Brazil.
Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL), caused by the species Leishmania infantum, represents a serious threat to both the human and canine populations, as it is considered the most severe and potentially fatal form of leishmaniasis. Dogs are considered domestic reservoirs of the disease, with an increase in human cases typically preceded by an increase in canine cases. Identifying infected animals is a challenge, as Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis (CVL) presents complex and often nonspecific clinical signs, with a significant proportion of asymptomatic dogs. Using secondary data from the Directorate of Environmental Surveillance of the Federal District (DIVAL-DF) and epidemiological reports, this study investigates the evolution and epidemiological situation of the canine population in the Federal District (DF), identifying individual risk factors associated with a positive clinical outcome for CVL. From 2005 to 2022, a seropositivity rate of 15.8% was found through the serological testing of 59,762 dogs. Characteristics associated with a higher seropositivity for CVL included the presence of apparent clinical signs (OR = 1.88; 95% CI: 1.73-2.05), age over six years (OR = 1.46; 95% CI: 1.32-1.62), short coat (OR = 1.32; 95% CI: 1.17-1.48), and male gender (OR = 1.10; 95% CI: 1.02-1.18). The results reaffirm the endemicity of leishmaniasis in the DF and a significantly high canine seroprevalence, with the identification of risk groups and areas showing a stronger association with a positive diagnosis for the disease. Therefore, the adoption of individual prevention and control measures, such as the use of insecticide-impregnated collars, vaccination, and dog treatment, may be an attempt to reduce the incidence of CVL.