4d.Progress report.
What were the most significant accomplishments this past year? This report serves to document activities conducted under a specific cooperative agreement between ARS and the Azorean Regional Veterinary Service under the Azores Cooperative Initiatives Program (ACIP), as mandated in the 1995 U.S.-Portugal Agreement on Cooperation and Defense and further defined in the Final Minute (95 ACD-FM) to that agreement and funded by Department of Defense. Additional details of research can be found in the report of the parent project plan 0210-22310-002-00D, International Cooperative Programs. This project, a joint effort between the Regional Direction for Health and the Regional Direction for Agriculture and research institutions in mainland Portugal, is an epidemiological study of the rat populations (vectors of the disease) of the islands as well as a vertical study to understand their cycles throughout the year. Accomplishments for this year in human epidemiology, include preparation of a final report on the Retrospective Leptospirosis Questionnaire (RLQ, 1993-2003). A survey was carried out on the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of islanders. The initiation of data integration for risk transmission analysis began. The data analysis was concluded for the Prospective Leptospirosis Questionnaire (PLQ, 2004 - 2005) and the PLQ for 2006 has begun. In laboratory diagnosis, research and lab production of the screening antigenic suspension for the MACRO test continued in Lisbon, together with its evaluation at the regional level. The prospective serological study of new human Leptospirosis cases (IPL 2005) was concluded and a study for 2006 cases continues. Identification of kidney isolates (genetic and antigenic systems) from target animal populations continue. Leptospira DNA extraction from fresh material of suspected patients continues. Leptospira DNA amplification (through PCR) is conducted on kidney samples to confirm the renal carrier state of rodents, together with the serological study of the humoral immunity of natural reservoirs whenever possible. To address rodent ecology the longitudinal study at Terceira was conducted through October 2005, with monthly captures of representatives of the three selected biotopes and statistical analyses of the data collected. The vertical study at São Miguel continued with monthly captures in the three selected biotopes, to complete an annual cycle in September 2006 along with statistical data analysis. The efficacy of different types of traps was also analyzed. Fieldwork was prepared and the longitudinal study implemented at São Miguel similar to the Terceira study. Preparation of Terceira-study scientific reports (LS + TS, year.
1)is underway. A Seminar was conducted in São Miguel with three international Leptospira experts and the project staff to exchange ideas and present the first Project data to the Azorean scientific community and civil society. The results of this project will help Regional Authorities to design interventions to prevent this disease that threatens dairy farmers.