Leptospiral agglutinins in captive and free ranging non-human primates in Sarawak, Malaysia

Macaca fascicularis Trachypithecus cristatus Nasalis have been detected from wildlife in many countries, however their role as reservoirs is still poorly understood [1-3]. Leptospirosis can result in economic losses in domesticated animals and has the potential to be an important zoonotic disease of humans [4]. Leptospires were first isolated from rats in 1917 and it is widely acknowledged that rodents are a key source of infection for humans [5]. However, recently Australian and Peruvian researchers have reported that bats can also carry pathogenic , [1-2, 6], although their role as carriers is not fully understood. Other wildlife, including primates, can also act as potential carriers of these pathogens [7-10]. However to date there has been little research conducted on free ranging wildlife. Leptospirosis in wildlife can affect biodiversity, human and livestock health, animal welfare and consequently the national economy [4]. Recently leptospirosis has been recognised as a re-emerging public health problem in Malaysia [11].At present Malaysian wildlife disease surveillance is poorly coordinated and emerging zoonotic infectious diseases represent a growing threat. Tourism is a major contributor to the economy of Malaysia with 24.6 million tourists visiting the country annually. It has been estimated that approximately one million tourists are involved in eco-tourism activities and this group is particularly at increased risk of exposure to infectious diseases [12-13].