Leptospirosis: The Relationship Between Rats, Clean and Healthy Living Behavior, and Living Environment Conditions

Abstract

Background: Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease that remains a public health problem in tropical regions, including Indonesia. Demak Regency, particularly the Sayung 1 Community Health Center (Puskesmas Sayung 1), is an endemic area with a high incidence and mortality rate of leptospirosis. This study aims to determine the relationship between the presence of rats, clean and healthy living behaviours, and environmental conditions with the incidence of leptospirosis.

Methods: An observational, analytical design was chosen, employing a cross-sectional approach. 100 respondents were selected using a purposive sampling technique. Data collection used a structured questionnaire that had undergone expert testing. Bivariate analysis used the chi-square test.

Results: The presence of rats was significantly associated with the incidence of leptospirosis. Most respondents had not fulfilled all indicators of clean and healthy living behaviour, such as waste separation and rat vector control. Furthermore, the physical condition of households is still suboptimal, as evidenced by the low proportion of houses with roofs and ventilation that meet health standards.

Conclusion: Although only the presence of rats proved statistically significant, leptospirosis prevention efforts still require a comprehensive approach encompassing behavioural education, physical environmental improvements, and ongoing vector control. This is crucial in areas with a high risk of leptospirosis transmission.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202634

How to cite this article:
Sumantol D, Maulidia N C, Chakim I, Mifbakhuddin, Leptospirosis: The Relationship Between Rats, Clean and Healthy Living Behavior, and Living Environment Conditions. J Commun Dis. 2026;58(2):98-104.