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Q Fever in Greece and Factors of Exposure: A Multiregional Seroprevalence Study

Overview
Journal Cureus
Specialty Biomedical Engineering
Date 2024 Oct 17
PMID 39416568
Authors
Magdalini K Christodoulou
Konstantinos Tsaras
Charalambos Billinis
Konstantinos I Gourgoulianis
Dimitrios Papagiannis
Affiliations
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Abstract

Introduction: The epidemiology of Q fever, caused by , varies significantly worldwide. This study aimed to document the prevalence of in Greece by measuring specific IgG antibody levels in serum samples from the general population and high-risk groups, including farmers, veterinarians, and laboratory workers.

Methodology: A multiregional, stratified sampling design was employed, with 1,345 participants from Thessaly and Central Macedonia. Serum samples were tested for IgG antibodies, and multivariate analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with seroprevalence.

Results: Overall, 8.1% of participants tested positive for antibodies, with the highest seroprevalence in Larissa (22.2%) and Karditsa (16.1%). High-risk occupational groups, particularly those with direct animal contact, showed a higher seroprevalence (13.6%). Multivariate analysis identified significant associations between seroprevalence and factors such as geographic region, occupation, and gender.

Conclusion: The study reveals regional and occupational disparities in Q fever seroprevalence in Greece, particularly in rural areas. These findings underscore the need for targeted public health measures, including heightened surveillance and preventive interventions for high-risk groups.

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