Seroprevalence of arthropod-borne bacterial infections in homeless individuals in Hamburg in 2020.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

The number of homeless people in Germany is steadily increasing. Due to their often precarious living conditions, this specific population may be increasingly exposed to ectoparasites that can transmit various pathogens. To assess the prevalence and thus the risk of such infections, we analyzed the seropositivity of rickettsiosis, Q fever, tularemia and bartonellosis in homeless individuals.

Methods

A total of 147 homeless adults from nine shelters in Hamburg, Germany, were included. The individuals underwent questionnaire-based interviewing, physical examination, and venous blood was drawn between May and June 2020. Blood samples were analyzed for antibodies against rickettsiae (Rickettsia typhi and R. conorii), Coxiella burnetii, Francisella tularensis and bartonel

SUBMITTER: Heinrich F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10665224 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature