Sero-prevalence of Toxoplasmosis in Sheep and its Zoonotic Importance in
Hargiesa, Somaliland.
Abstract
Background Toxoplasmosis has public health importance,
particularly in immunocompromised individuals such as pregnant women
leading to congenital abnormalities and fetal losses. In this study, we
aimed to determine the sero-prevalence of toxoplasmosis in sheep at
Mandeeq Slaughter House in Hargiesa and pregnant women attending
antenatal care at Hargiesa Group Hospital. Methods
Cross-sectional study design with systematic random sampling method and
Questionnaire surveys were used for the collection data from sheep and
pregnant women. Sera were collected and examined for anti-
Toxoplasma gondii antibodies using latex agglutination test.
Results The overall prevalences of toxoplasmosis were 25.5%
and 28% in sheep and human, respectively. Multivariable logistic
regression analysis indicated that female (AOR = 2.18; 95% CI: 1.38 -
3.47; p = 0.001) and young age groups of sheep (AOR = 3.04; 95% CI:
1.04-8.86; p = 0.041) were significantly associated with
Toxoplasma gondii sero-positivity. In pregnant women, age groups
between 25-34 (AOR = 2. 76; 95% CI: 1.07 - 7.14; P = 0.037), pregnant
women who have cats in their home (AOR = 6.45; 95% CI: 2.37-17.52; P =
0.000), women who have close contact with garden soil (AOR = 6.74; 95%
CI: 2.55-17.81; P = 0.000), poor hand washing practices before food
eating (AOR = 29.5; 95% CI: 5.41– 161.11; P= 0.000) and drinking tap
water (AOR = 8.4; 95% CI: 2.54 – 28.08; P = 0.000) were significantly
associated with Toxoplasma gondii sero-positivity.
Conclusion This is the first report regarding to toxoplasmosis
in Hargeisa, where pregnant women should avoid eating uncooked mutton
and close contact with cats besides good hygienic practices related to
food handling.