Detection of Antibodies for Pathogenic Leptospira in Wild Mammals and Birds from Southern Chile-First Record of Seropositivity in a Guiña ( Leopardus guigna )

Leptospirosis is a neglected bacterial zoonotic disease of worldwide distribution that is present in different animal species. This epidemiological study determined the seroprevalence of pathogenic spp. in animals at a wildlife rehabilitation center in Puerto Montt, southern Chile, by sampling 60 animals belonging to three classes (birds, mammals, and reptiles). Diagnosis was performed using the microscopic agglutination test with a panel of eight serovars and serogroups. The results showed that 15 animals had anti- antibodies, obtaining a seroprevalence of 25.00%, with serogroup Tarassovi presenting reactivity in 13 of the seropositive animals. Among the classes of mammals, chilla foxes ( ) and pudus ( ) were seropositive. A guiña ( ) was also seropositive, which was described for the first time in mammals. Among the classes of birds, choroy parrots ( ), bandurrias ( ), and Magellanic penguins ) were seropositive. Routine examinations to diagnose leptospirosis, perform epidemiological surveillance, and apply prevention and control measures are necessary, and additional research focusing on the One Health approach to explore the epidemiological role of different wild animal species in the maintenance and transmission of leptospirosis at the local and global levels are recommended.