Risk Factors for Foodborne Zoonoses Among Populations With and Without a Migration Background in Berlin, Germany

Knowledge gaps exist regarding foodborne zoonotic diseases in migrant populations. We assessed the seroprevalence of <i>Campylobacter</i>, <i>Salmonella</i>, <i>Yersinia</i>, <i>Brucella</i>, hepatitis E virus (HEV), and <i>Trichinella</i>, and identified potential exposure risks in populations with and without migration backgrounds. In a cross-sectional study (2014-2016), adults with Turkish, Russian, Vietnamese, or German backgrounds residing in Berlin, Germany, were recruited via convenience sampling. Sera were screened for anti-IgG antibodies, and risk factors were assessed via a structured questionnaire. Logistic regression was used for analysis. We included 1180 participants: 497 Germans and 215, 273, and 195 individuals with Russian, Turkish, and Vietnamese backgrounds, respectively. <i>Salmonella</i> seroprevalence was highest among Vietnamese (47-50%) and lowest among Turks (18-20%). Campylobacter seroprevalence ranged from 17% to 23%. <i>Yersinia</i> seroprevalence was highest among Germans (64-70%) and associated with raw pork consumption. HEV seropositivity was highest among Vietnamese (27-28%) and lowest among Russians (5%). No samples were positive for <i>Brucella</i>; two were positive for <i>Trichinella</i>. High seroprevalence of <i>Campylobacter</i>, <i>Salmonella</i>, <i>Yersinia</i>, and HEV suggests substantial exposure and frequent asymptomatic or mild infections. While <i>Yersinia</i> seropositivity was associated with raw pork consumption, high seroprevalence in Turks-who rarely consume pork-suggests other food sources or transmission routes.