Ehrlichia chaffeensis Antibodies in White-Tailed Deer, Iowa, 1994 and 1996
Author Information
Author(s): Linda Mueller-Anneling, Mary J. Gilchrist, Peter S. Thorne
Primary Institution: University of Iowa College of Public Health
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence and geographic distribution of Ehrlichia chaffeensis in white-tailed deer in Iowa?
Conclusion
The study found that seroprevalence of Ehrlichia chaffeensis in white-tailed deer increased from 12.5% in 1994 to 13.9% in 1996, indicating a rising risk for human monocytic ehrlichiosis.
Supporting Evidence
- Seropositivity rates for Ehrlichia chaffeensis were 12.5% in 1994 and 13.9% in 1996.
- The estimated number of seropositive deer increased to 54,701, a 28% increase.
- Most positive specimens were found in the southern region of Iowa.
Takeaway
The study tested deer blood to see how many had a certain germ that can make people sick, and found more deer were getting it over time.
Methodology
Blood samples from white-tailed deer were collected and tested for antibodies against Ehrlichia chaffeensis using immunofluorescent antibody assays.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from the limited number of specimens submitted from some counties and reliance on hunters for data.
Limitations
The study may have selection bias due to reliance on hunter-killed deer for population estimates, and the specificity of the IFA test is unknown.
Participant Demographics
The study involved licensed deer hunters in Iowa.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.00001
Statistical Significance
p<0.00001
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