Seroprevalence and risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii infection among open market workers in Ananindeua, Pará, Brazil

Abstract

Herein, the presence of antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii in food handlers from open markets, and potential risk factors for exposure to the agent, were investigated. A total of 169 food handlers were included in the study. Blood samples were collected and evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In total, 89.3% (151/169) of the samples were positive for anti-T. gondii antibodies. Moreover, “sex” and “drink water or juice of unknown origin” were found to be significantly associated with the risk of infection, whereas “keeping a cat” was not. Food handlers in free markets have high frequency of anti-T. gondii antibodies.

Keywords

• antibody
• food handler
• seroepidemiological survey
• toxoplasmosis