Seroprevalence and Associated Factors of Toxoplasma Infection among Sample of Pregnant Women in Wassit Governorate- Iraq

Abstract

Objectives: Identifying the seroprevalence of acute anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgM and chronic IgG antibodies, the environmental and behavioral factors and some socio demographic data of the study sample.Methods: A descriptive Cross sectional study done on 275 pregnant women(15-45 years old). All the studied women were interviewed and blood samples were taken.Results: The seroprevalence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgM antibody (acute infection) was 22.2%, whereas IgG seropositivity (chronic infection ).was 32.4%,with significant association with consumption of undercooked meat, undercooked beef consumption, consumption of one meal of meat /day and exposures to soil and /or contact with cats were significant associated factors.Conclusion: There is a considerable prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection.