Toxoplasma gondii: seroprevalence and risk factors in ewes in the mountainous plateau of Santa Catarina, Brazil

Abstract

Sheep are highly susceptible to Toxoplasma gondii infection, andit might cause reproductive problems ininfected ewes. Aiming at determining the prevalence and identifying the risk factors for this infection,1308 blood samples from ewes (≥ 18 months), in 92 properties in 30 municipalities in a mountainousenvironment of Santa Catarina state-Brazil, were collected for performing anti-T. gondii antibodies testing byindirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA). A standardized questionnaire was used to obtain information on risk factors (management, frequency and type of reproductive disorders, diet and contact with cats); these data were analyzed by Fisher exact and the chi-square tests (p < 0.05). IgG anti-T. gondii was detected in 55.9 % (731/1308)of analyzed samples, whose dilution ranged from 1:64 to 1:4096. No statistically significant differences in seroprevalence (p > 0.05) were observed neither between the assessed properties and municipalities, nor onthe correlation between anti-T. gondii serology results and the variables race and contact with cats.Positive correlation (p = 0.003) was found between high seropositivity rate and exclusive native grasses diet.Trend (p = 0.07) of highest prevalence among animals with reproductive disorders was observed. T. gondiiinfection in ewes has been widespread in the mountainous region of Santa Catarina, which has representeda risk to public health.