Seroepidemiology and Risk Factors of Human Toxoplasmosis in Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq

Abstract

Introduction: This study aimed at the detection of anti-Toxoplasma. gondii antibodies in human blood samples using immunological tests and to investigate the potential risk factors. Methods: Five hundred and twenty samples were collected from individuals aged between 10 to 71 years old. All samples were tested by latex, lateral flow assay, and Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Personal data which may be potential risk factors were collected. Results: Out of the 520 Blood samples tested, 23.3%, 25.4%, 20.2%, and 9.8% had positive results for latex, lateral flow assay, ELISA IgG, and ELISA IgM, respectively. The prevalence of T. gondii antibody was high in the elderly age group that had a seropositive result of 26.1%,27.5%, and 23.2% for latex, lateral flow assay, and ELISA IgG, respectively. Conclusion:The two major risk factors associated with the infection are contact with raw meats and consumption of raw vegetables.Latex and lateral flow assay for diagnosis of T. gondii in routine screening might be a cost-effective testing strategy. Consumers are recommended to heat the food of animal origin, and wash all vegetables and fruit carefully before consumption.