Abstract
INTRODUCTION
The epidemiology of Rickettsia and Ehrlichia species infection is underestimated in Mato Grosso State.
METHODS:
Serum samples obtained during a Dengue outbreak in 2011-2012 were tested via indirect immunofluorescence and/or ELISA.
RESULTS:
Samples from 19/506 (3.8%) patients presented antibodies for at least one of three Rickettsia species; 2/506 (0.4%) samples reacted against Ehrlichia canis. Most afflicted patients are residents of cities from the south-central region of the state, where these diseases have been reported in animals.
CONCLUSIONS:
These results show serological evidence of human exposure to Rickettsia and Ehrlichia species in Mato Grosso State.
Keywords:
Rickettsiosis; Ehrlichiosis; Immunofluorescence assay