The silent spreader: Reassessing the role of mice in leptospirosis risk

Emerging research highlights mice as a critical yet underestimated source of leptospirosis, emphasizing the need for improved strategies to control the spread of the infectious disease.

Led by researchers from Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University, in collaboration with ecologists from the University of Auckland and wildlife vets from Brazil, the study aimed to assess the density of infected mice within populations and understand their implications for disease transmission on a broader scale.

The research is published in the Journal of Applied Ecology.

The findings revealed notable fluctuations in both the prevalence and density of mice, with an unexpected discovery that these metrics fluctuated in reverse directions. Lead researcher Dr. Marie Moinet says the discovery that the disease dynamics do not follow standard epidemiological theory has important implications.

"Our data shows that the risk of getting leptospirosis remains significant regardless of fluctuations in mouse density. Even at lower densities, roughly 9 out of 10 mice were infected, indicating a persistent risk.

"Additionally, infected mice tend to roam more extensively, potentially spreading the disease further. Increased awareness of mice as a source of leptospirosis is essential, especially since we are often in closer contact with them than we realize. The recent trend of mice sighted in supermarkets is a good reminder of that."

By integrating ecological and epidemiological methodologies, the research provides new insights into wildlife disease dynamics, with mice being underemphasized as disease carriers within Aotearoa New Zealand.

Given the ubiquitous presence of mice across the country, their population sizes often go unnoticed until they reach outbreak level. Dr. Moinet says it heightens the risk for infection, but misconceptions about the disease can cause further complications.

"Leptospirosis cases and strains have historically been linked to livestock, creating the misconception that it's only a farmer's disease. Contact with infected mammal urine or contaminated water poses a significant transmission risk, with house mice harboring the prominent Ballum strain in recent cases.

"The lack of awareness sets a dangerous precedent for those not in direct contact with livestock to be misdiagnosed or not receive proper treatment despite the need for a timely diagnosis."

Infected individuals can show a wide range of symptoms, from asymptomatic to severe, including headache, fever, meningitis and kidney failure. Two-thirds of reported cases result in hospitalization, averaging four nights, with half experiencing long-lasting symptoms. Early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment is critical.

"While current control measures of leptospirosis are tailored for livestock strains, our study underlines the need for strategies that address rodent-associated strains. Awareness is the key to mitigation, particularly among health care providers, as anyone in contact with mice, including trampers, gardeners and urban residents, is at risk," Dr. Moinet says.

Conducted over two years in a farm setting, the study involved humane trapping and testing of mice for Leptospira. While focused on a specific geographic area, the findings call for similar studies in urban settings to fully grasp the disease's urban environments.

Professor Jackie Benschop says the research shows the need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate leptospirosis risk.

"The data reinforces previous findings linking rodent activity to disease transmission, marking the need for greater attention to rodent control to safeguard public health. Pest control measures should not be limited to times of high density, and it's likely climate change and our recent flooding incidents will aggravate the problem."