Spatial study of risks to leptospirosis in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro (RJ)

ABSTRACT Leptospirosis is relevant to public health because of its severity and mode of dissemination, being its occurrence greater in places with socio-environmental vulnerability. In the municipality of Rio de Janeiro, the cases would be related to their social and spatial structure. The spatiality of leptospirosis in such city, from 2000 to 2010, was analyzed through maps and field observations. Results suggested that Barra de Guaratiba, Pedra de Guaratiba and Grumari are neighborhoods of high risk - places with poor sanitary structures and constant flooding. Health Surveillance actions are of great importance in identifying and intervening in places of health risk situations.