Seroprevalence of Human Anti-Echinococcus granulosus Antibodies in Saveh, Central Iran
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Abstract
Background: We aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of anti- Echinococcus granulosus (E. granulosus) antibodies in humans in Saveh, Central Iran.
Methods: A random sample of 199 participants referred to the health centers in Saveh, Markazi Province, central Iran was selected. Informed consent was obtained, and the participants completed a questionnaire. Three milliliters of venous blood were collected in the Parasitology Laboratory of Saveh University of Medical Sciences. The Pishtaz Teb ELISA kit was used to detect anti-E. granulosus antibodies, following the manufacturer’s protocol.
Results: The seroprevalence of anti-E. granulosus antibodies was 6%. The prevalence was slightly higher in men (6.9%) than in women (5.1%). The 26–40 yr age group had the highest prevalence (11.1%). Most participants were freelancers, and this group exhibited the highest seroprevalence (11.4%). There was no statistically significant association between antibody presence and age, sex, occupation, or place of residence. Among the 30 participants who kept dogs, 4 tested positive. A personal or family history of hydatid cysts was not significantly associated with seropositivity. Of the 15 participants who did not wash vegetables with disinfectants, 2 were antibody-positive. Not washing hands before eating was significantly associated with infection, with 18.5% of those who did not wash their hands testing positive (P=0.001).
Conclusion: The presence of anti-E. granulosus antibodies in Saveh indicates ongoing exposure and an elevated risk of infection. Implementing preventive measures—such as regular monitoring and screening, health education, and reducing contact with stray dogs—is essential to control hydatidosis in this region.
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