Seroprevalence of zoonoses in a Cree community (Canada)

Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis. 2007 Nov;59(3):283-6. doi: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2007.06.002. Epub 2007 Sep 18.

Abstract

Cree trappers and hunters are at risk for contracting infectious diseases conveyed by wildlife. We performed a study in a Cree community (Canada) to determine the seroprevalence of 8 zoonotic infections among hunters and trappers for evidence of exposure to Trichinella sp., Toxoplasma gondii, Toxocara canis, Echinococcus granulosus, Leptospira sp., Coxiella burnetii, Francisella tularensis, and Sin Nombre virus. A total of 50 participants (28 women and 22 men) were included in this study. Results indicate no or infrequent exposure to the Sin Nombre virus (0%) and 3 of the 4 parasites investigated (0-4%). Exposure to T. gondii (10%) and some bacteria appeared to be more prevalent (range, 4-18%). Overall, seropositivity was related to fishing, hunting, and trapping activities. Physicians should be aware of these infections in this population, particularly Q fever, tularemia, and leptospirosis.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cohort Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Indians, North American*
  • Leptospirosis / epidemiology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Protozoan Infections / epidemiology
  • Q Fever / epidemiology
  • Quebec / epidemiology
  • Seroepidemiologic Studies*
  • Tularemia / epidemiology
  • Zoonoses / epidemiology*