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Exposure to Streptococcus suis among US swine workers
Tara C Smith1, Ana W Capuano, Brenda Boese
1University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA. tara-smith@uiowa.edu
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|December 3, 2008
Summary
Human Streptococcus suis infections are underdiagnosed in North America. Antibody data from US adults suggest this bacterial infection occurs more often than previously thought, highlighting a need for increased awareness.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Streptococcus suis is a recognized cause of human meningitis and sepsis globally.
- Human Streptococcus suis infections are infrequently diagnosed in North America despite swine presence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the seroprevalence of Streptococcus suis serotype 2 antibodies in US adults.
- To assess the frequency of human S. suis infection in North America.
Main Methods:
- Serologic testing for antibodies against S. suis serotype 2.
- Comparison between swine-exposed and non-swine-exposed adult populations in the US.
Main Results:
- Antibodies to S. suis serotype 2 were detected in the studied US adult population.
- Serologic findings indicate a higher prevalence of S. suis infection than currently reported.
Conclusions:
- Human Streptococcus suis infections may be more common in North America than clinical diagnoses suggest.
- Further surveillance and diagnostic efforts for S. suis are warranted in the US.
