The existence and characteristics of rats and shrews in endemic leptospirosis areas and types of ectoparasites: a case study of West Jakarta, Indonesia

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to determine the presence and species of the rats and shrews that can potentially cause leptospirosis in West Jakarta, Indonesia, and the species of ectoparasites found in them. Methods: The research was a descriptive study employing a cross-sectional approach. The study population was all species of rats and shrews in the region and the sample collection technique used was purposive sampling. The traps were installed in the homes of respondents who had suffered from leptospirosis and their closest neighbors, with a total of 521 traps. Leptospirosis data based on secondary data was obtained from West Jakarta Health Office (2016-August 2019). The technique for catching rats involved using humane live traps, while the identification of the rats and ectoparasites was done in the laboratory. Results: It was found that more rats were caught in Cengkareng Timur sub-district, Cengkareng District, with a percentage of 14.8%, while the least in Duri Kepa, Kapuk, Kedaung Kali Angke and Kedoya Utara with a percentage of 3.7%. The rats were mostly found in East Cengkareng Sub-District, with the most common type being Rattus rattus (74.1 %) and the least Suncus murinus (11.1%); more male rats were caught (66.7%) than female (33.3%). The type of ectoparasite found in the rats was fleas. Xenopsylla cheopis was the most common type, at 83.3% and more fleas were male, at 66.7%. The most common rat species was Rattus rattus. The ectoparasite most commonly found in them was the female flea Xenopsylla cheopis. Conclusions:  Rattus rattus and Xenopsylla cheopis were found in an East Cengkareng sub-district. Surveys, monitoring, and control of rats and ectoparasites are essential for the preparedness and development of an early warning system of possible diseases that they can cause.