Epidemiological aspects of leptospirosis in Rio Grande do Sul during the 2024 Flood.

BACKGROUND

Leptospirosis is a serious zoonosis. In 2024, Rio Grande do Sul (RS) experienced floods affecting 93% of the municipalities and 8.8% of the population. In this study, we reviewed the leptospirosis notifications post-flooding.

METHODS

Descriptive quantitative study using secondary data from the RS Health Department Epidemiological Report.

RESULTS

A total of 7,129 suspected cases were reported, of which 788 were confirmed. Porto Alegre had the highest number of cases and Travesseiro had the highest incidence rate. Epidemiological weeks 20-24 peaked in cases and deaths (47 total cases), with significant municipal variation.

CONCLUSIONS

The 2024 floods caused a significant increase in leptospirosis, underscoring the need for a One Health approach and strengthening public health policies.