Serosurvey of anti-Leptospira sp. and anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in capybaras and collared and white-lipped peccaries

Abstract

Introduction: Brazilian native species are reemerging as increasingly free-ranging populations. Methods: Sera from 31 capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) and 28 peccaries (Pecari tajacu and Tayassu pecari) were tested for anti-Leptospira and anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies using microscopic seroagglutination test. Results: Nineteen percent of free-ranging and 10.0% of captive capybaras, along with 31.8% of collared peccaries, were seropositive for T. gondii. None was seropositive for Leptospira sp. Conclusions: The present findings indicated low risk of disease, particularly among capybaras and white-lipped peccaries; however, active surveillance programs are important for monitoring wildlife health and public health once they are in public parks around cities.