Seroprevalence of Human Cystic Echinococcosis in Alborz Province, Central Iran in 2015

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to conduct a sero-epidemiological survey in Alborz Province, central Iran to detect the rate of hydatidosis in the city and nearby villages. METHODS: Overall, 680 serum samples were collected from 536 male and 127 female subjects referred to different health centers of Karaj, Alborz Province, central Iran and nearby villages in 2014–15. All patients filled out a questionnaire and an informed consent. Sera were analyzed using indirect-ELISA test with AgB. Ten μg/ml antigens (Proceeded hydatid fluid), serum dilutions of 1:500 and conjugate anti-human coombs with 1:10000 dilutions were utilized to perform the test. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS software ver. 11.5. RESULTS: Twenty-three cases (3.4%) were positive for hydatidosis by ELISA test. The prevalence of hydatidosis among females and males was 3.1% and 4.7%, respectively. The rate of the disease was significantly higher in areas where dogs were higher (P<0.05). There was no significant difference as regards age groups, sex, job, residency, and literacy. Regarding occupation, housekeepers had the highest rate of infection as 5.9%. The seroprevalence of infection was 4.2% in bachelors and master people which showed the highest rate. As regards residency, urban life showed no significant difference with rural life (2.8% vs. 4.4%). Age group of 30–39 yr old, with 4.3% as prevalence had the highest rate of positivity (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: Because of the specific situation of Alborz Province, and availability of many stray dogs, obtained rate of hydatidosis shows that the authorities should be cautious to monitor the disease.