Seroprevalence and associated risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii among pregnant women in Ain Defla, northwest Algeria

Background: Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a serious public health issue, but limited data has been published to date on the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection in Algeria.Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of T.gondii infection among pregnant women in Ain Defla, northwest Algeria.Methods: Blood samples were collected from 300 pregnant women. Serum samples were analyzed to detect T. gondii antibodies (immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin G) via the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. Risk factors associated with T.gondii infection was assessed through structured questionnaire.Results: The overall seroprevalence of T.gondii infection was 32.03%. Seropositivity for IgG only was 22.78%, IgM only was 2.14% and cooccurrence of IgG/IgM was 7.12%. Pregnant women who lived in rural areas (OR= 1.739 ; 95%CI: 1.009–2.997; P=0.045),eat raw vegetables (OR=2.659; 95%CI: 1.575–4.488; P<0.0001), who drunk tap water (OR=3.806 ; 95%CI: 2.248–6.442; P<0.0001),were in contact with soil (OR= 2.836; 95%CI: 1.620– 4.967; P<0.0001) and have not meals at home (OR=3.221 ; 95%CI: 1.864 – 5.565 ; P<0.0001) were significantly at risk of infection with T. gondii.Conclusion: Our findings emphasize the need for higher awareness of T. gondii infection in Algeria. Public education and serological screening programm should be recommended. Keywords: T.gondii infection; Pregnancy; Seroprevalence; Antibodies; Risk Factors.