Seroprevalence of toxoplasma gondii infection in goats From Two Counties In Mississippi, Usa

摘要

Background Toxoplasma gondii is one of the most non-host specific parasites in the world. It is an intracellular protozoan parasite with cat as its definitive host. But it has been reported in a wide range of terrestrial animals including goats, from many parts of the world. There is an increasing consumption of goat meat and milk in Mississippi and consequently goat farms. While goats' economic importance is increasing, the public health risk involved in their use is also increasing. T. gondii infection which it may harbor causes stillbirth, abortions and neurological problems in humans. Objective This study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in goats in two countries in Southwestern Mississippi, to compare its prevalence with previous reports and augment information regarding toxoplasmosis in the State of Mississippi.Materials and Methods During the period of March and April, 2008, a total of 75 blood samples were collected from goats from Adams County (48) and Wilkinson County (27). The samples were tested in three serial dilutions of 1:25, 1:50, and 1:500 using the modified agglutination test (MAT) method. A titer of 1:25 was considered to be seropositive.Results Of 75 goat blood samples tested, 19.0 %( 14/75) was seropositive for T. gondii at 1 25 titer, 6 (8.0%) at 1:50 titer and 2 (2.6%) at 1:500 titer. The overall seroprevalence was 19.0%. Conclusion The seroprevalence was comparatively high. It is recommended that more studies of this kind be continued to know the pattern and distribution of toxoplasmosis in the State of Mississippi and initiate control measures after collation of sufficient data.