Serologic survey for Coxiella burnetii phase II antibodies among slaughterhouse workers in Kerman, southeast of Iran

Abstract

Objective: To determine the presence of antibodies against phase II among slaughterhouse workers in Kerman, southeast of Iran. Methods: The antibody titers of the serum samples were measured by enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay using phase II Coxiella burnetii as the antigen [kit (Virion\Serion, Wurzburg, Germany) according to the manufacturer's protocol]. Results: The positive rate of IgG antibody was 68% in the slaughterhouse workers. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that slaughterhouse workers in Kerman area have a higher risk of infection and should consider potential infection with Coxiella burnetii.

Keywords

• Q fever
• Coxiella burnetii
• Slaughterhouse workers
• Kerman
• Iran