Seroepidemiologic Survey of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever among Slaughters and Butchers in Isfahan

Abstract

Background: Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) is a viral zoonotic infection that, formerly several cases has been reported in Iran. During recent years some outbreaks has been reported in different parts of country including Isfahan. The purpose of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of CCHF according to finding of IgG among butchers and slaughters of Isfahan province. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, conducted as a joint research with Arbovirus Laboratory in Pasteur Institute, IgG antibody against CCHF was assessed among 80 individuals. The study was conducted as a joint research with Arbovirus laboratory in Pasteur Institute of Iran on 2004. Findings: Overall, 4 (5%) persons were seropositive and 2 cases had borderline results. There was no statistically significant difference between butchers & slaughters. Positive cases were detected mainly in the Isfahan slaughterhouse. Conclusion: The findings of the current study show that although CCHF is endemic among domestic animals in Isfahan province, but seropositivity in high risk groups, e.g. butchers and slaughters is not so high. More serious measures should be considered for prevention of CCHF in high risk groups. Key words: CCHF, butcher, slaughter, serology, isfahan