Factors associated with IgG positivity to Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus in the area with the highest seroprevalence in Greece

Ticks Tick Borne Dis. 2013 Sep;4(5):417-20. doi: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2013.04.003. Epub 2013 Jun 3.

Abstract

In order to gain insight into the factors playing a role for the high seroprevalence of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus in the human population of Thesprotia prefecture, Greece, serum samples were collected from residents of the area together with a questionnaire about demographic and epidemiological factors. A 14.4% seroprevalence was detected, with increased age, agro-pastoral activities, slaughtering, and contact with animals (especially sheep) among the factors associated with seropositivity. The high seroprevalence with the absence of any clinical cases needs further investigation.

Keywords: Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever; Greece; Seroprevalence.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Animals
  • Antibodies, Viral / blood*
  • Demography
  • Female
  • Geography
  • Greece / epidemiology
  • Hemorrhagic Fever Virus, Crimean-Congo / immunology*
  • Hemorrhagic Fever Virus, Crimean-Congo / isolation & purification
  • Hemorrhagic Fever, Crimean / epidemiology*
  • Hemorrhagic Fever, Crimean / immunology
  • Hemorrhagic Fever, Crimean / virology
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin G / blood*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Risk Factors
  • Seroepidemiologic Studies
  • Sheep
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Antibodies, Viral
  • Immunoglobulin G