Seroprevalence of hantavirus and Yersinia pestis antibodies in professionals from the Plague control program.

INTRODUCTION

Professionals who handle rodents in the field and in the laboratory are at risk of infection by the microorganis mharbored by these animals.

METHODS

Serum samples from professionals involved in rodent and Yersinia pestis handling in field or laboratory work were analyzed to determine hantavirus and plague seroprevalence and to establish a relationship between these activities and reports of illnesses.

RESULTS

Two individuals had antibodies against hantavirus, and two harbored antibodie against the plague; none of the individuals had experienced an illness related to their duties.

CONCLUSIONS

These results confirm the risks of hantavirus- and plague-related field and laboratory activities and the importance of protective measures for such work.