Toxoplasmosis in Sheep: A Potential Risk of Infection Among Residents and Farm Workers in Lajes, Brazil

Abstract

The Toxoplasma gondii protozoan is prevalent in most areas of the world, causing veterinary and medical im- pact. The aim of this study was to make a seroepidemiological report and identify risk factors for human toxoplasmosis among residents and workers of sheep farms in Lajes, Brazil. For diagnosis, an indirect haemagglutination test was ap- plied; the seroprevalence was detected. An interview was conducted with each participant, obtaining information on cul- tural and hygiene habits, age and environmental variables suspected to affect the risk of T. gondii. The analysis for asso- ciation with risk factors did not show significant differences. However, our dates suggest that sheep farmers are at in- creased risk for Toxoplasma gondii.