Seroprevalence of toxoplasma gondii infection in Kwal, a rural distriction of Plateau - Nigeria

Abstract

Toxoplasma gondii infection has bccome a major public health concern in recent times due to the ravaging HIV/AIDS pandemic. The seroprevalence of T.gondii infection was determined in Kwal, a rural district of Plateau-Nigeria using lgG-ELISA. Epidemiological assessment was also conducted for the purpose of establishing the infection dynamics. Antibodies to T.gondii were detected in 30 (20.8%) of the 144 individuals studied. The prevalence of infection was slightly higher amongst the males (22.0%) than the females (20.0%), individuals of age group 21-30years had the highest prevalence of 33.3% while the least (7,4%) occurred amongst the 41-50 years age group. No significant difference was noted (p<0.05). The seroprevalence of Toxoplasma antibodies was significantly higher amongst individuals who handle/eat rodents (29.6%) and those who constantly had contact with soil (21.2%). These were the predominant risk factors of T. gondii infection in the area. Consequently, the infection occurred most amongst farmers (25.0%). This study contributes to the development of guidelines for the prevention and management of toxoplasmosis. Results were discussed in relation to the T.gondii epidemiological factors inherent within the population studied.