No abstract

To assess the specificity and sensitivity of Fluorocult media for the identification of Escherichia coli, the Il-glucuronidase activities of 1,258 bacterial strains, as well as 20 strains of Candida spp., were investigated. Fluorescence of colonies combined with positive indole reaction resulted in specificities of 99.6 to 99.8%. Sensitivities were 59.1% (MacConkey agar), 69.9% (brolacin agar), 85.5% (Columbia agar), and 85.8% (ECD agar).

No abstract

The use of a radioimmunoassay and an enzyme immunoassay for early diagnosis of Q fever is described, both of which are based on the IgM antibody-capture principle. A commercially available phase II antigen and a labeled, purified anti-Q-IgG of human origin were employed. With these tests Q fever antibodies were detected earlier in the course of infection than with the complement fixation test.

The number of people travelling to tropical or subtropical countries, whether for holidays or for business, is steadily increasing. Many of these travellers are at risk of acquiring an infectious disease. Protection against certain infectious diseases is possible by vaccination. Vaccinations required or recommended for adults are reviewed here. Progress in the refinement of available vaccines, as well as the development of new vaccines, is discussed.