[A serological survey of Legionnaires' disease in domestic fowls and animals in Chengdu area].

A serological survey of antibodies against Legionella pneumophila (Lp) serotypes in Chengdu area by microagglutination test showed that there were high levels of antibodies against serotypes Lp1 and Lp6 in healthy domestic fowls and animals (rabbits, pigs, chickens, ducks and geese). In rabbits, antibodies against serotypes Lp1-Lp6 were determined, showing positive rates (titer greater than or equal to 1:16) ranging 6.3-23.8%. Among them only the serotype Lp3 did not show any positive one. The highest positive rate was observed in pigs' anti-Lp6 (89.8%), significantly higher than those reported in America, Denmark and Nanjing, China. The results suggested that recessive infections of Legionnaires' Disease Bacterium might occur in domestic fowls and animals. So the epidemiological surveillance of Legionnaires' disease in animals, as well as in environment (water and soil) is of importance for the prevention in man.