ABSTRACT
This chapter provides state-of-the-art overviews on foodborne diseases caused by Leptospira in relation to their etiology, biology, epidemiology, clinical presentation, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Leptospira is a spirochete that is responsible for causing leptospirosis, and is the most widespread and prevalent zoonotic disease in the world. Leptospirosis has raised considerable public concern during the past few decades due to its involvement in numerous outbreaks. As a most important environmental endemic disease, leptospirosis is often associated with natural disasters such as floods and hurricanes. The cells of Leptospira have pointed ends that are usually bent into distinctive hooks. It has two periplasmic flagella with polar insertions located in the periplasmic space. Leptospira possesses a typical double membrane in which the cytoplasmic membrane and peptidoglycan cell wall are closely linked and are overlaid by an outer membrane. Special conditions are required by leptospires for their growth in the environment.
