Antibodies against Rickettsia in German Hunters
Author Information
Author(s): Jansen Andreas, La Scola Bernard, Raoult Didier, Lierz Michael, Wichmann Ole, Stark Klaus, Schneider Thomas
Primary Institution: Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
Hypothesis
Is autochthonous transmission of Rickettsia to humans occurring in Germany?
Conclusion
Rickettsia spp. are endemic to southern Germany and may cause autochthonous infections.
Supporting Evidence
- Positive antibody titers against Rickettsia spp. were found in 26 hunters.
- Living in southern Germany was significantly related to seropositivity.
- Seropositive hunters reported arthralgia more frequently than seronegative hunters.
Takeaway
The study found that some hunters in Germany have antibodies against Rickettsia, which means they might have been infected by these germs from ticks.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study using convenience sampling to enroll hunters and analyze serum samples for antibodies against Rickettsia spp.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to convenience sampling and self-reported data.
Limitations
The study relies on serological data, which may not confirm active infections.
Participant Demographics
Of the 286 hunters, 252 (88.1%) were male, with a median age of 46 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.02
Confidence Interval
95% CI 6.2–13.0
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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