ELISA for seroepidemiological study of exposure to Vibrio cholerae of population in Krabi Province, Thailand.

ABSTRACT

Seroepidemiological study of Vibrio cholerae exposure was carried out in Krabi Province during January 1989 to December 1990 using indirect ELISA to determine serum antibodies to lipopolysaccharides (LPS) of V. cholerae. Among 363 serum samples obtained from cord blood and venous blood of healthy persons, aged from 6 months to over 50 years, 65% and 64% were found positive for specific IgG and IgM against LPS of V. cholerae, respectively. The seroprevalence of V. cholerae infection increased with age from that found at 6 months, being highest in the age groups of 30-49 years for IgG and 15-29 years for IgM. The seroprevalence of V. cholerae infection was higher among female Muslims and home-makers, and increased with the family income. The seroprevalence of cholera infection was also influenced by home location, methods of food storage and water supply. These data suggested that a large number of Krabi's population had V. cholerae infection.