Work

Seroprevalence of seven climate-sensitive zoonoses in Greenland and northern Sweden (1998–2017): High antibody prevalence against Rickettsia and Leptospira, with Leptospira possibly linked to global warming

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background Climate change alters zoonotic disease patterns in the Arctic, yet knowledge remains limited. Design Antibodies against 7 zoonotic agents were analyzed in 660 human sera from Greenland and Northern Sweden (1998–2017). Greenlandic samples were tested for F. tularensis, B. melitensis/abortus, C. burnetii, Rickettsia spp., and Leptospira spp., while Swedish samples also included Borrelia burgdorferi and tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV). Results Leptospira seroprevalence was higher in Greenland 2013 (18%) than in Sweden 2012-17 (4%) and increased significantly over time in West Greenland (1998: 2.5%; 2013: 30%). Rickettsia seroprevalence remained stable over time (12%). Seroprevalence against F. tularensis and B. melitensis/abortus in Greenland 2013 was less than 1%. In Sweden, seroprevalence was 1% for B. melitensis/abortus, 2% for B. burgdorferi, 3% for F. tularensis, and 5% for TBEV. C. burnetii antibodies were not detected in any sample. Two of 81 polar bear samples from East Greenland (2016–2023) were seropositive for Leptospira spp. Conclusions This first report on human Leptospira seroprevalence in Greenland highlights rising rates, possibly linked to contaminated water and global warming. Findings emphasize widespread Rickettsia exposure in northern regions and tick-borne pathogens in Sweden, underscoring the need for updated public health data to inform public health planning.

Source: One Health

DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2025.101244