Seroprevalence and Risk Factors of Scrub Typhus, Leptospirosis, and Brucellosis in Fever Cases and Healthy Populations in Northeastern and Central India
Researchers examine three important zoonotic diseases across northeastern and central India. They focus on scrub typhus, leptospirosis, and brucellosis. These infections often present as fever of unknown origin. Studies target both acute fever cases and healthy community members. Teams collect blood samples for antibody testing through ELISA methods.
Scrub typhus shows substantial presence in fever patients. Seropositivity reaches notable levels in tribal areas of Madhya Pradesh. Rates appear lower in some northeastern population surveys. Monsoon and post-monsoon seasons drive higher detection. Agricultural work and outdoor exposure increase risk. Rural and forest-fringe residents face greater chances of infection.
Leptospirosis also contributes to acute fever burden. Investigators detect antibodies in a meaningful share of samples from Madhya Pradesh. Water contact and occupational activities raise susceptibility. Flooding and heavy rainfall amplify transmission. Rural communities experience higher exposure during monsoon periods.
Brucellosis remains under-recognized yet significant. Seroprevalence reaches around eleven percent in fever patients from Meghalaya. Similar rates appear in hospital-based studies from central India. Madhya Pradesh contributes a large share of positive cases. Direct animal contact forms a major risk factor. Consumption of raw milk or undercooked meat further elevates chances. Animal handlers and farmers show the highest positivity.
Community surveys in healthy populations reveal past exposure. Antibody levels remain lower than in acute cases. Adults often display higher seropositivity than children. Females sometimes show greater vulnerability in certain settings. Shared environments with livestock create ongoing transmission pathways.
These findings highlight diagnostic gaps. Clinicians need better awareness of these zoonoses. Improved testing facilities support accurate case detection. One Health strategies linking human, animal, and environmental data strengthen control. Targeted interventions in high-risk tribal and rural areas reduce disease burden. Continuous surveillance guides prevention efforts across both regions.