Effects of chilling and freezing on survival of Leptospira interrogans serovar pomona in naturally infected pig kidneys

Authors: Blackmore DK, Ho HF
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 27, Issue 6, pp 121-123, Jun 1979
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Livestock, Pig, Production animal
Subject Terms: Bacterial, Clinical pathology, Diagnostic procedures, Zoonosis, Disease/defect, Infectious disease, Meat, Contamination/hygiene, Public health, Kidney/renal disease, Urinary system/urology
Article class: Scientific Article

---

Abstract: Pig kidneys naturally infected with Leptospira interrogans serova pomona were subjected to chilling (0°C) and freezing storage (-15°C). Seven out of 9 (78%) kidneys still contained viable leptospires after 14 days at 0°C and 8 out of 10 (80%) after 30 days at -15°C. Both experimental chilling and freezing occurred at an average rate of 1°C/h. It is concluded that the commercial processes of chilling and freezing do not eliminate leptospires from infected pig kidneys.

---