[Results of surveillance of human leptospirosis in Slovakia 1986-2005].

STUDY OBJECTIVE: Presentation of results of surveillance of human leptospirosis over the last 20 years. MATERIAL: The data sources were the annually published results of leptospirosis surveillance and study of natural focuses of these infections. RESULTS: We describe trends in the overall incidence of leptospirosis, distribution of cases by etiological agent and type of leptospirosis, morbidity rate, distribution of patients with different types of leptospirosis by age and occupation/socio-economic group, leptospirosis seasonality and clinical forms. Some epidemiological measures that were taken are specified. Intensity of the epizootic process of leptospirosis in natural foci is correlated with the incidence of the disease in humans. Basic data from surveillance of leptospiral infections in farm animals as the source of infection for humans are presented. CONCLUSION: The significance and usefulness of conducting regular leptospirosis surveillance are emphasized.