Sporotrichosis outbreak in domestic cats – surveillance and control actions, São Paulo City

Abstract

 In 2011, a rumor of presence the of cats with the zoonosis sporotrichosis led  to an epidemiological investigation in Itaquera, Administrative District of São  Paulo City in order to detect the occurrence of an outbreak and to propose control  measures. It was delimited an area to perform an active search of animals and  people cases besides collecting material to diagnosis. Animals with positive  diagnose were treated and received periodic home care support. Suspected human  cases were referred for medical care. Owners were advised about the disease,  importance of domiciliation, care during medication and proper handling. Joint  efforts of surgical neutering were made to reduce circulation of the animals,  spread of the disease and to identify suspect animals. Information relative to  detection of new cases were disclosed between veterinarians and physicians of  health public service. From April 2011 to December 2013 a total of 114 cats and  one dog were diagnosed positive and 13 people with suspicious lesions were  detected. A decrease in the occurrence of human and feline cases in the period  was observed. The adhesion and the commitment of the owners to treatment,  enabled by the bond of trust established with the surveillance health staff, the  sterilization and proper handling of cats avoid abandonment and decreased  the transmission. Results indicate that this strategy was effective for outbreak  detection and control and to animal recovery. A continuidade do monitoramento  será fundamental para diagnóstico precoce e redução de casos em humanos e  animais. Continued monitoring will be essential for early diagnosis and reduction  of cases in humans and animals.