[Natural focus of leptospirosis in the rice paddies of Krasmodar Territory and the means for its eradication].

OFFthe rice fields of the Krasnodar Territory the intensive epizootic of leptospirosis icterohemorrhagica can be observed in the population of Norway rats (995 animals have been examined and 102 cultures obtained) the whole year round. The highest intensity of the epizootic process is known to fall on the end of summer and the beginning of autumn (45-50% of Leptospira carriers). The natural focus of leptospirosis on the rice-growing complex is epidemiologically dangerous. The epizootic process can be suppressed by reducing the population of rats by means of poisoned baits. The alternate use of different poisons ( rotindan , brodifacum ) given in the form of paraffined briquettes has proved to be most expedient.