Re-emergence of tularemia in Germany
Author Information
Author(s): Kaysser Philipp, Seibold Erik, Mätz-Rensing Kerstin, Pfeffer Martin, Essbauer Sandra, Splettstoesser Wolf D
Primary Institution: Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology
Hypothesis
What is the presence of Francisella tularensis in different rodent species in endemic areas of Germany?
Conclusion
The study highlights the need for long-term surveillance to understand the patterns of tularemia in Germany.
Supporting Evidence
- A total of 386 small mammals were trapped during the study.
- F. tularensis was detected in five different rodent species.
- None of the ticks or fleas tested positive for F. tularensis.
- One of 28 water samples tested positive for F. tularensis DNA.
Takeaway
Scientists found a germ called Francisella tularensis in some small animals in Germany, which can make people sick, so they need to keep checking these animals to understand why the sickness is coming back.
Methodology
The study involved live-trapping small mammals, serologic testing, real-time PCR screening, and cultivation.
Limitations
The study did not determine tick species and focused only on small mammals and water samples.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.025
Confidence Interval
2.76 – 7.08%
Statistical Significance
p = 0.025
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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