Isolation of Leptospira kmetyi from residential areas of patients with leptospirosis in Kelantan, Malaysia

BACKGROUND: Environmental sampling provides important information that enhances the understanding of the leptospiral human-environment-animal relationship. Several studies have described the distribution of Leptospira in the environment. However, more targeted sites, that is, areas surrounding leptospirosis patients' houses, remain under-explored. Therefore, this study aims to detect the presence of Leptospira spp. in the residential areas of patients with leptospirosis. METHODS: Soil and water samples near leptospirosis patients' residences were collected, processed and cultured into EMJH media. Partial 16S rRNA gene sequencing was performed to confirm the identity of Leptospira. RESULTS: EMJH culture and partial 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed predominant growth of pathogenic Leptospira kmetyi (17%, n=7/42). All tested locations had at least one Leptospira sp., mostly from the soil samples. CONCLUSION: More than one species of Leptospira may be present in a sampling area. The most common environmental isolates were pathogenic L. kmetyi.