[Seroprevalence of Bartonella henselae in occupational risk persons].

INTRODUCTION

Bartonella henselae infection is a worldwide zoonosis with the domestic cat as reservoir. Although people with occupational contact with these pets are risk population only few studies of prevalence in them have been reported.

METHODS

A study of seroprevalence of B. henselae was performed to veterinaries and other persons with occupational contact with cats, residents from the Bío-Bío region of Chile. Serum IgG antibodies against B. henselae were determined by indirect immunofluorescence (IFI). Demographic data and history of cat bites or scratches were recorded.

RESULTS

There were 76 persons included in the study, 18 to 69 years old. A 93.4% had a history of cat scratch or bite. A seroprevalence of 60.5% were found. No differences were found between gender, age, or history of cat scratch or bite.

CONCLUSIONS

A high seroprevalence in people from this region with occupational risk were found. No subgroups with higher risk factors than others were identified.