Seroprevalence of Cytomegalovirus, Toxoplasma gondii, and Rubella Virus Antibodies in Women of Childbearing Age in Erbil-Kurdistan Region

Cytomegalovirus (CMV), Toxoplasma gondii, and rubella virus infections may cause serious adverse outcomes when infection occurs during pregnancy. This study aimed to assess the seroprevalence of antibodies against these pathogens and identify potential factors associated with seropositivity among women of childbearing age in Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 504 women of childbearing age from Erbil between January and April 2025. Serum samples were tested for immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies against CMV, T. gondii, and rubella virus using electrochemiluminescence immunoassays. The seroprevalence of anti-CMV IgM and IgG was 14.5% and 43.5%, respectively. CMV IgG seropositivity was significantly associated with rural residence (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 3.1, P = 0.02) and lower educational level (AOR = 1.7, P = 0.04). The seroprevalence of anti-T. gondii IgM and IgG was 5.7% and 34.3%, respectively. High consumption of raw vegetables and fruits was significantly associated with T. gondii IgG seropositivity (AOR = 4.6, P = 0.001). The seroprevalence of anti-rubella IgM and IgG was 25.4% and 66.7%, respectively. Urban residence was significantly associated with rubella seropositivity (AOR = 1.4, P = 0.001). The findings indicate that a substantial proportion of women of childbearing age in Erbil was seronegative for antibodies against these pathogens. Strengthening health education, preventive counseling, and assessment of vaccination status may help reduce the risk of infection during pregnancy.