Structural barriers in the prevention and control of leptospirosis in a municipality in southern Brazil: a qualitative study

Abstract

Background This article aimed to describe the structural barriers to the prevention and control of leptospirosis in a municipality in southern Brazil. Methodology A qualitative approach, specifically a case study design, was employed in this study conducted within primary care, surveillance, and management settings of a municipality. Thirty-three workers were selected through purposive sampling, and semi-structured individual interviews were conducted from August 2022 to March 2023. Data analysis followed a thematic sequential approach managed using the Etnograph program. In this stage, five categories were constructed, describing barriers related to leptospirosis knowledge and prevention measures, lack of training, insufficient infrastructure, inadequate human resources, absence of information production, and changes in the notification protocol. Results Through the identification of barriers, it was possible to highlight local healthcare access bottlenecks, which impact the management of leptospirosis cases and control efforts. Conclusions While the results may not be representative of the entire national territory, they can serve as a starting point for further studies on leptospirosis, prompting inquiries into its impact in areas with high disease risk and fostering the development of interventions on a larger scale.