<p><i>Toxoplasma gondii</i> is a ubiquitous protozoan parasite with significant public health implications, particularly in pregnancy where congenital transmission may result in severe fetal outcomes. Despite its importance, epidemiological data on toxoplasmosis among Ethiopian pregnant women remain scarce. A cross-sectional study was conducted between 2022 and 2024 among 554 pregnant women attending antenatal care in Northwest Ethiopia. Participants were selected using systematic random sampling. Data were collected via a semi-structured Amharic questionnaire. Venous blood samples (10&#xa0;ml) were obtained, sera separated, and stored at − 20&#xa0;°C. Serological detection of anti- <i>T. gondii</i> IgM and IgG antibodies was performed using ELISA. Data were analyzed using SPSS, with binary logistic regression applied to identify associated risk factors. Statistical significance was set at <i>p</i> &lt; 0.05. In this study, the overall seroprevalence of <i>T. gondii</i> among pregnant women was 54%, with IgG positivity at 9.2%, IgM at 6.1%, and combined IgG/IgM at 38.8%.Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified dog ownership as the most significant association of <i>T. gondii</i> seropositivity. The study demonstrates a high burden of <i>T. gondii</i> infection among pregnant women in Northwest Ethiopia. Domestic animal ownership, poor waste management, dietary habits, and environmental exposure were identified as major risk factors. Strengthening health education, promoting hygienic practices, and implementing routine screening during pregnancy are essential for prevention and control of toxoplasmosis in the region.</p>

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Epidemiological assessment of Toxoplasma gondii seropositivity and associated risk factors among pregnant women in Northwest Ethiopia

  • Eden Woldegerima,
  • Mequanente Dagnaw,
  • Mastewal Birhan,
  • Mequant Melese,
  • Nagendra Babu Gundamraju,
  • Eshetu Matiwos Massebo,
  • Nega Birhanie

摘要

Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous protozoan parasite with significant public health implications, particularly in pregnancy where congenital transmission may result in severe fetal outcomes. Despite its importance, epidemiological data on toxoplasmosis among Ethiopian pregnant women remain scarce. A cross-sectional study was conducted between 2022 and 2024 among 554 pregnant women attending antenatal care in Northwest Ethiopia. Participants were selected using systematic random sampling. Data were collected via a semi-structured Amharic questionnaire. Venous blood samples (10 ml) were obtained, sera separated, and stored at − 20 °C. Serological detection of anti- T. gondii IgM and IgG antibodies was performed using ELISA. Data were analyzed using SPSS, with binary logistic regression applied to identify associated risk factors. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. In this study, the overall seroprevalence of T. gondii among pregnant women was 54%, with IgG positivity at 9.2%, IgM at 6.1%, and combined IgG/IgM at 38.8%.Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified dog ownership as the most significant association of T. gondii seropositivity. The study demonstrates a high burden of T. gondii infection among pregnant women in Northwest Ethiopia. Domestic animal ownership, poor waste management, dietary habits, and environmental exposure were identified as major risk factors. Strengthening health education, promoting hygienic practices, and implementing routine screening during pregnancy are essential for prevention and control of toxoplasmosis in the region.