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

ABSTRACT

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To determine the presence of antibodies against phase II among slaughterhouse workers in Kerman, southeast of Iran.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>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].</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The positive rate of IgG antibody was 68% in the slaughterhouse workers.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Our findings suggest that slaughterhouse workers in Kerman area have a higher risk of infection and should consider potential infection with Coxiella burnetii.</p>