Seroprevalance of Leptospirosis Among Slaughterhouse Workers in Çorum Province

Abstract

Objectives: Leptospirosis is one of the most common zoonotic diseases globally. Slaughterhouse workers are recorded among high risk occupations for leptospirosis. The aim of this study was to detect the seroprevelance rate and risk factors for leptospirosis among officially recorded slaughterhouse workers in Çorum province. Materials and Methods: In this observational prospective study; whole slaughterhouse workers, who were officially recorded as working in Çorum province, were met twice on June 2014 and June 2015 with a year interval and antibody existence against Leptospira and risk factors for seropositivity were investigated. Results: The study group consisted of 25 slaughterhouse workers, all male. Mean age was 37; mean job experience duration was 10 years. 15 out of 25 workers were met again after one year period and antibody was detected on the same three (12%) slaughterhouse workers. Conclusion: Leptospirosis seroprevelance was detected as 12% (3/25) among slaughterhouse workers in Çorum province. There was no seropositivity in Sungurlu, Alaca and İskilip districts while the highest seropositivity rate was in Osmancık district, as 33% (1/3). Glove and apron usage rates were 100%, but it was noticed that boot usage rate was low as 33%, suggesting a contributing factor to seropositivity rate. There was no new case among 15 re-evaluated slaughterhouse workers after one year.