Prevalence of Anti-Leptospira Antibodies in Bovines (2018-2023) and Reported Serovars and Serogroups-A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis.

INTRODUCTION

Bovine leptospirosis is a globally distributed zoonotic disease that significantly impacts animal production and public health, leading to abortions and infertility in cattle. The aims of our study were (1) to quantitatively summarize the global and regional prevalence of anti-Leptospira antibodies in bovines and (2) to determine the most frequently reported serovars and serogroups affecting bovines.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted across five electronic databases and a search engine. Eligible studies were published between January 2018 and December 2023 in English, Spanish, or Portuguese and used the MAT for diagnosis. The methodological quality of the documents was assessed using published guidelines. Multilevel random-effects logistic regression meta-analysis models for single proportions, with parameters calculated via maximum likelihood, were used to estimate the pooled prevalence of anti-Leptospira antibodies. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed using the Q and I tests, whereas publication bias was evaluated with the Begg and Egger tests.

RESULTS

The meta-analysis included 77 studies, estimating global pooled seroprevalence of 39.5% (95% CI: 33.1%-46.3%). The pooled seroprevalence was 42.7% in the Americas (95% CI: 34.5%-51.4%), 44.3% in Europe (95% CI: 6.7%-89.8%), 37.5% in Asia (95% CI: 25.4%-51.4%), and 27.4% in Africa (95% CI: 19.9%-36.4%). In 55 studies, 18 serovars were identified, with a higher frequency observed in Hardjo (31.1%), Pomona (9.8%), and Icterohaemorrhagiae (8.2%). Additionally, 65 studies reported serogroup-specific seroprevalence, leading to Sejroe (54.9%), Pomona (9.9%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (8.5%), and Tarassovi (5.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

The high global seroprevalence of anti-Leptospira antibodies highlights the need for increased surveillance of leptospirosis in bovines. Preventive strategies should be improved to mitigate the effects of bovine leptospirosis in both animal production and public health.