Synanthropic Cockroaches (Blattidae: Periplaneta spp.) Harbor Pathogenic Leptospira in Colombia

Leptospirosis cases in Colombia are typically linked to peridomestic rodents; however, empirical data suggest that Leptospira</it>-infected patients with no apparent exposure to these reservoirs are common. Cockroaches (Periplaneta</it> spp.) have equal or greater interaction with humans than rodents, yet their potential role as carriers of Leptospira</it> has not been assessed. We determined if pathogenic Leptospira</it> is harbored by Periplaneta</it> spp. in Cali (Colombia) and the variables influencing this relationship. Fifty-nine cockroaches were captured from seven sites and DNA was extracted from the body surface and digestive tract for a multiplex polymerase chain reaction, targeting genes secY</it> and flaB.</it> Logistic regression models and proportion tests showed a higher likelihood for Leptospira</it> to be isolated from body surfaces (P</it> > 0.001) and from individuals inside houses (six times more likely). These findings are the first to demonstrate an association between Periplaneta</it> spp. and Leptospira</it>, suggesting the need to investigate the potential for cockroaches to serve as reservoirs or transport hosts for Leptospira.</it>