Animal sporotrichosis in two municipalities in Mato Grosso do Sul - Brazil: epidemiological aspects from a One Health perspective

Abstract

Human and animal sporotrichosis has been observed in Corumbá and Ladário, Mato Grosso
do Sul (MS), Brazil, since 2011. The unique characteristics of border areas and the human-environmentanimal
interface necessitate the development of health policies and programs that incorporate One
Health concepts, fostering advances in health research and management. This article examines the
epidemiological aspects of feline sporotrichosis with the aim of supporting decisions pertinent to its
prevention, control, and public health management. Data were collected from veterinary records
between 2011 and 2018, encompassing 315 cases (five dogs and 310 cats). Mapping of compatible
or confirmed cases of animal sporotrichosis was conducted using QGis, though data loss posed a
significant limitation. Descriptive statistics assessed the frequency of variables, geo-statistical analysis
methods, and disease occurrence rates. This study represents the first investigation of sporotrichosis
in the state. The occurrence rate in felines varied from 0.04% to 3.50% between 2015 and 2018. The
typical profile of infected cats was young adults that were not neutered. The euthanasia rate was 76.50%,
while the cure rate for treated animals stood at 64.90%. A higher number of cases was associated
with more populous neighborhoods, indicating these as higher-risk areas. The findings were crucial
in engaging public authorities and the community to address sporotrichosis. However, improvements
are needed in areas such as case notification, laboratory diagnosis, treatment monitoring, health
education, responsible pet ownership, and population control of felines.