Epidemiological Survey of Leptospirosis in Cattle Farms in the Morobe Province of Papua New Guinea

Abstract Leptospirosis represents a critical yet understudied zoonotic bacterial disease in developing agricultural regions, with significant implications for cattle health and productivity. This comprehensive epidemiological survey of 22 cattle farms, including both commercial and smallholder operations in Papua New Guinea's (PNG) Morobe Province reveals substantial knowledge gaps, systemic vulnerabilities, and complex disease transmission risks. The research discovered that 82% of farmers lack fundamental knowledge about leptospirosis, its transmission pathways, and prevention strategies. High-risk environmental factors were prevalent, including reliance on open water sources, substantial rat infestations (73% of farms), and frequent rainfall events. Clinical assessments indicated significant production losses, with 64% of farms reporting high mortality rates associated with clinical manifestations such as stillbirths, weak offspring, skin diseases, and reduced milk production. Critically, 77% of farms lack access to veterinary services, and 86% operate without comprehensive biosecurity measures. These findings expose substantial infrastructure and awareness challenges in managing leptospirosis within the cattle industry. The study highlights urgent needs for targeted educational interventions, enhanced veterinary support, and development of locally appropriate disease prevention strategies. By establishing baseline epidemiological data and identifying key risk factors, this research provides crucial insights into leptospirosis dynamics in PNG's cattle farming landscape, offering a foundation for future intervention and policy development in agricultural health management.