Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in dogs at the Chattogram Metropolitan Area, Chattogram

Abstract

Infection by the protozoan parasite, Toxoplasma gondii is wide rife in humans and animals throughout the globe. Transmission takes place principally by intake of raw or undercooked meat that contains parasite cysts or by intake of oocysts excreted in cat faeces, which might contaminate water and meat. Dogs play a crucial role in human infection attributable to their intimate relationship with humans. This study was designed to see the prevalence of infection in dogs at the Chattogram Metropolitan Area (CMA) wherever no such work has been conducted previously. For this study, sixty serum samples were collected from dogs referred to Sahedul Alam Quadery Teaching Veterinary Hospital (SAQTVH) of Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (CVASU). The samples were then tested by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Epidemiological data were obtained from the pet owners employing a questionnaire. Overall seroprevalence in dogs was found 25% (95% CI: 14.7–37.8) (15/60). Logistic regression and chi square tests were used for evaluating of risk factors. The prevalence is considerably higher in dog with presence of cats (50%) within the house than absence of cats (20%) p = 0.046. The prevalence of infection was considerably high in female (OR=4.34,95% CI, 1.03,18.36; p=0.046) than male. However, no statistically significant association was found with dogs’ age, breed, access to outside, deworming, cooked meat, hunting practices and purpose. Overall, the results showed a comparatively high seroprevalence of T. gondii infection in dogs at Chattogram metropolitan area and proved association of T. gondii prevalence rates with the dogs’ sex, presence or absence of cats. The high detection of antibodies of T. gondii parasite confirms the dogs in the CMA, which is a potential hazard not just for dogs, however conjointly for public health. Considering disease importance, the current study indicates that Toxoplasma gondii is widespread in dogs in CMA which may have important implication for public health.