Seroprevalence of Brucella antibody titer in rural population of Abhar, Iran

Background: Brucellosis is a major health problem worldwide, especially in developing countries. Following infection with brucella, antibodies appear in the serum and its titer detection can help us to evaluate the course and epidemic status of the infection. The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of anti-brucella antibody titer in rural population of Abhar. Patients and methods: In this descriptive study, 300 individuals were randomly selected for whom blood samples were screened to determine anti-brucella antibody titter, using standard tube agglutination (STA) and Coombs tests. Results: The seroprevalence of anti-brucella antibody titer was 1.25% for STA and 4.58% for Coombs test. Totally, 14 (5.83%) individuals had titers of 1/80 or higher in STA and/or Coombs tests. Conclusions: Our results emphasizes on the necessity of conducting comprehensive and scheduled program of seroprevalence survey, particularly in rural area, aimed at reducing brucella prevalence as well as to guide planning and resource allocation of decision makers for future interventions.