Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae is a ubiquitous Gram-positive bacterium, which causes erysipelas in swine, mammals, birds and erysipeloid in humans. A previous study conducted in Kamuli District, eastern Uganda identified serotypes 1 and 2 in pigs. Therefore, this follow-up study was carried out to establish the prevalence and factors associated with E. rhusiopathiae infection in people handling raw pork (abattoir workers, butchers and cooks) in the district.
Photo credit: Free ranging smallholder piglets in Kamuli district, Uganda (ILRI/Eliza Smith)