Seroprevalence of Coxiella Burnetii Antibodies in High Risk Groups in Eastern Turkey

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study is to estimate and evaluate the prevalence of antibodies of Coxiella burner]] (C. burned]) in people considered to be at risk; such as farmers, slaughterhouse-workers and butchers in Eastern region of Turkey. The number of relevant studies concerning the subject is inadequate especially in our region. Material and Methods: Five hundred fifty two serum samples were collected from the people considered to be at risk of contacting with C. burned], such as farmers, abattoir workers and butchers in four cities and their 14 districts in the Eastern Turkey. Serum samples were centrifuged and stored at -20 degrees C. The serum samples were tested with an ELISA kit to detect IgG antibodies against C. burnetii phase II antigen in order to determine the prevalence of Qfever. Results: The mean seropositivity rate across the region was detected as 36.6%. Among different high risk professions, the highest prevalence rates were detected in abattoir workers (65.9%), followed by butchers (42.9%), and farmers (32.8%). The prevalence rates among butchers were detected as 63.2% in Bitlis, 39.1% in Van and 25% in Mu. Among farmers, the prevalence rates were 36.6% in Bitlis, 34% in Van, and 18.2% in Mus. Conclusion: Significantly high seropositivity rates among the people with high risk professions in the Eastern Anatolia is reported for the first time in this study. It is essential to identify the reservoirs in order to diagnose C. burner]] infection correctly. It is essential to take the necessary control and prevention precautions in high-risk occupations due to high seropositivity rates determined in this study.