We tested animals from wildlife trade sites in Laos for the presence of zoonotic pathogens. Leptospira spp. were the most frequently detected infectious agents, found in 20.1% of animals. Rickettsia typhi and R. felis were also detected. These findings suggest a substantial risk for exposure through handling and consumption of wild animal meat.
Keywords: Laos; Leptospira; Orientia tsutsugamushi; Rickettsia; bacteria; bushmeat; illegal trade; wildlife; zoonoses.