Abstract:
A cross sectional study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of toxoplasmosis in small ruminants and associated human and animal exposure risk factors. Serological detection of Toxoplasma antibodies was done in 300 goats and 100 sheep sera by ELISA test (Interlab, São Paulo, Brazil). Information on risk factors was collected by interview method, using structured questionnaires. The overall prevalence of toxoplasmosis was 27 and 12% in sheep and goats respectively. Dairy goat had a prevalence of 10.7%, which was not significantly lower than 13.3% in indigenous goats (p=0.48). On the other hand, sheep had a prevalence of 27%, which was significantly higher than that of local goats (p=0.007). Flock prevalence was 40% in goats and 56% in sheep. Prevalence did not vary significantly across the study areas (p>0.05). Presence of cats had strong association with prevalence of toxoplasmosis (p=0.000, RR=3.4). All of the interviewed farmers were not aware of toxoplasmosis. Human practices that were considered risks for contracting toxoplasmosis are consuming undercooked meat (100%) and milk (3.8%), sharing of water source with animals (16%), access of cats (including cat faeces) to household consumables i.e. garden (10.5%) and poor disposal of animal wastes and aborted materials (100%). The present study, reports for the first time, occurrence of toxoplasmosis in goats and sheep in Mvomero district. The prevalence and risk factors reported are of public health concern. Similar study is recommended in human beings in same particular study areas in order to properly assess and quantify human burden of toxoplasmosis.
