Detection of Leptospira sp from lakes within UNIMAS

Nurul Anati, Jasmin (2014) Detection of Leptospira sp from lakes within UNIMAS. [Final Year Project Report] (Unpublished)

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Abstract

Leptospira sp is a bacterium that causes Leptospirosis, a zoonotic worldwide disease. This species can be found in water sources and can infect people if the Leptospira is pathogenic. To determine the possible occurrence of Leptospira in water source near UNIMAS, a total of 20 water samples were collected from stagnant water from the lake at east campus and west campus. The water samples were then inoculated into Ellinghausen McCullough Johnson and Harris (EMJH) medium, incubated at room temperature for one month and subsequently observed under dark-field microscope. Positive test for pathogenic strains was conducted by using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Six cultures (30 %) exhibited the presence of Leptospira under dark-field microscope while only one culture (5%) out of 20 water samples exhibited positive result for pathogenic species. Based on the PCR results, the pathogenic strain is likely Leptospira interrogans. Results from this study revealed the occurrence of pathogenic and non-pathogenic Leptospira sp presence in the UNIMAS lakes. Therefore, the authority should ensure safety of the lakes and further precautionary steps should be applied to avoid possible contamination of leptospirosis.

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