PREVALENCE AND DEMOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION OF ACUTE TOXOPLASMOSIS AND RISK FACTORS DETERMINATION AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN

Abstract

Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide disease with no geographical boundaries. Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular protozoan parasite that affects a wide range of intermediate hosts, including all warm-blooded animals and humans. The domestic cat is one of the most important hosts for oocyst development. The current study investigation was carried out as a cross-sectional study. The study encompassed a total of 200 blood samples from pregnant females who sought medical care at District Headquarter Hospital Khar. Structured questionnaire was used to assess the possible risk factors for Toxoplasmosis infection. Questions were mainly focused on possible risk factors for infection.  All samples were analysed for T. gondii IgM antibody by using ELISA method. Out of the total 200 obtained samples 25% (n=50) found to be seropositive for T. gondii specific IgM antibody, while 75% (n=150) were found IgM antibody seronegative for Toxoplasmosis. The sero-prevalence of Toxoplasmosis among pregnant women was found to high in District Bajaur.  However, given the large at-risk population in this Toxo-endemic region of District Bajaur. Furthermore, it is revealed that low education, poor hygiene, low socioeconomic status, less awareness of disease greatly increases the prevalence of Toxoplasmosis in study areas. Un-pasteurized milk, contact with domestic animals like Dog , cats , sheep , cows and buffalos are found to be the potential risk factors of the disease.