Evidence of Rickettsia helvetica Infection in Humans, Eastern France
Author Information
Author(s): Pierre-Edouard Fournier, Fabienne Grunnenberger, Benoit Jaulhac, Genevieve Gastinger, Didier Raoult
Primary Institution: Universite de la Mediterranee, Marseille, France
Hypothesis
Is Rickettsia helvetica a significant pathogen transmitted by Ixodes ricinus ticks to humans?
Conclusion
The study found a 9.2% seroprevalence of Rickettsia helvetica among forest workers in eastern France, indicating potential exposure to this pathogen.
Supporting Evidence
- A 37-year-old man seroconverted to Rickettsia helvetica after a febrile illness.
- Serosurvey results showed 9.2% of forest workers had antibodies against R. helvetica.
- Antibody titers against R. helvetica were higher than those against other tested rickettsial species.
Takeaway
Some people in eastern France have been exposed to a germ called Rickettsia helvetica, which can be carried by ticks that bite humans.
Methodology
A serosurvey was conducted among 379 forest workers to test for antibodies against Rickettsia helvetica and other rickettsial species.
Limitations
The study did not include a questionnaire to assess tick bites and relied on serological testing without culture confirmation.
Participant Demographics
The study included 377 men and 2 women, aged 20 to 59 years, all state employees.
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