Rickettsia typhi seroprevalence among patients with unexplained acute fever at the Sourô Sanou University Hospital Center (SSUHC), Burkina Faso

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the seroprevalence of anti-IgG antibodies against Rickettsia typhi among patients with unexplained acute fever (UAF) at the Sourô Sanou University Hospital (CHUSS) in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. A prospective study was conducted from July to October 2025. A total of 87 patients with UAF were enrolled. The diagnostic protocol systematically included blood cultures and ELISA for the detection of anti-R. typhi IgG antibody. The diagnostic protocol included routine screening for malaria and dengue fever, as well as blood cultures. ELISA was performed only if the initial tests were negative. The overall anti-R. typhi IgG antibody seroprevalence was 12.64% (12/87). The 30–45-year age group was the most represented (25.29%). Farmers and housemaids were the most exposed (18.2%). Clinically, chills and headaches were the most frequent symptoms (18.2%). Regarding risk factors, 54.5% of seropositive patients were reported living in proximity to animals or arthropod habitats. While 92% of blood cultures were negative, a statistically significant association was observed between serological and blood culture results (p < 0.001). These findings confirm the circulation of Rickettsia typhi in Bobo-Dioulasso, highlighting murine typhus as a potential cause of unexplained acute fever. However, the detection of anti- R. typhi IgG antibody can indicate past exposure; further studies using molecular technique or paired-sera analysis are essential to confirm acute cases and accurately assess the disease burden in Burkina Faso. Not applicable.