The Frequency of IgM anti-Coxiella burnetii (Q fever) Antibodies among Slaughterhouse Workers in Kerman city, ۲۰۱۲

Background & Aim: Q fever is an important zoonotic disease caused by infection with Coxiella burnetii, a Gram negative, obligate intracellular bacterium classified within the order Legionellales. Farmers, veterinarians, abattoir workers and laboratory personnel are among persons at risk of Q fever. The aim of this study was to determine frequency of IgM anti-Coxiella burnetii antibodies in slaughterhouse workers in Kerman city/ Iran. Method: In this survey, ۶۴ sera samples were gathered during May - June ۲۰۱۱ from slaughterhouse workers to evaluate the presence of phase II IgM antibodies against Q fever, using a commercial indirect ELISA test (Virion/Sermon, Germany). Results: Among all sera samples tested, only ۵ samples (۷.۸%) were positive for the presence of IgM antibodies. Conclusion: Since chronic Q fever leads to more complex conditions like endocarditics, chronic fatigue syndrome and recurrent abortion, preventive measures like using mask or available vaccines are recommended. Moreover, early diagnosis of Q fever followed by appropriate treatment is necessary.

کلیدواژه ها:

Q fever ، Abattoirs ، workers ، Serology ، ELISA