SOROPREVALENCE AND RISK FACTRORS FOR CANINE VISCERAL LEISHMANIOSIS IN ITAPORANGA-PB
The present study aimed to analyze the epidemiology of Visceral Canine Leishmaniasis (VCL) in the municipality of Itaporanga-PB between the years 2015 and 2016. 180 records of notification and investigation of suspected dogs deposited at the Municipal Health Department were retrieved, where the variables were analyzed using the absolute number and relative frequency, applying the chi-square test. The seroprevalence corresponded to 13,3% when associated to two diagnostic methodologies: rapid immunochromatographic test (TR DPP®) and ELISA (EI LCV). Of the 24 seropositive dogs, male (70,8%), undecided (79,2%), urban area (70,8%) and age greater than two years (70,8%) prevailed. The analysis of the clinical signs revealed statistical significance and presence of risk between alopecia (p= 0,001; OR= 7,474; PR= 4,237) and multiple wounds (p= 0,000; OR= 7,667; PR= 4,529) with seropositivity. Seroprevalence in Itaporanga-PB was compared to other municipalities in Paraíba, Northeast and Brazil, and the other variables and risk factors were discussed with the literature. Due to the epidemiological situation of the city, the continuation of canine serological surveys in subsequent years and the application of other prophylactic measures for parasitosis.