Dados do Trabalho

Título

Seroprevalence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii and risk factors for infection in sheep in the state of Goiás

Introdução

Toxoplasmosis is a cosmopolitan infection caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii. In sheep, it is an important factor related to production losses, as well as causing alterations in pregnant females. In addition, the consumption of contaminated meat can trigger an infection in humans.

Objetivo (s)

This study aimed to evaluate the spatial distribution and risk factors for T. gondii infection in sheep in the state of Goiás, located in the center-west region of Brazil.

Material e Métodos

Using the indirect immunofluorescence reaction (RIFI), the seroprevalence of anti-T.Gondii antibodies were analyzed in 1000 serological samples obtained from sheep from all the macro- and micro-regions of the state of Goiás. Data on gender, animal age, property size, type of farm, water source, veterinary assistance, herd replacement, the presence of domestic cats, the presence of wild cats and presence of other wild animals were obtained at the time the serological samples were taken. The differences between the seroprevalence obtained about the variables analyzed were estimated using Pearson's chi-square test (χ2). The odds ratio (OR) values for each risk factor evaluated are all statistical analyses carried out with a 95% confidence interval.

Resultados e Conclusão

Anti-T. gondii IgG positivity (titer ≥ 64) was observed in 34.3% (343/1000) of the samples, ranging from 26.9% (31/115) to 44.2% (53/120) and from 21.8% (12/55) to 55.2% (16/29), respectively in the mesoregions and microregions analyzed. Sero-reactive animals were detected in all the regions investigated, with the age of the animals, the water source, the way the herd is replenished, and the presence of domestic cats and wild animals being considered the risk factors statistically associated with the occurrence of T. gondii in the animals. The results highlight the importance of surveillance of infection in sheep as well as the need to implement prevention and control measures in these animals. Considering the economic impact on farms and the fact that humans can become infected by eating raw or undercooked meat from these animals, controlling animal infection also contributes to preventing disease in humans.

Palavras Chave

One health; Toxoplasma gondii; Protozoa; Zoonosis.