<i>Toxoplasma gondii</i> infection and risk factors associated with its spread at live bird markets in Katsina Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

Toxoplasmosis occurs in most species of warm -blooded animals. This study aimed to determine the sero-prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in local chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) in Katsina metropolis. A total of 460 sera were collected from two live bird markets (LBMs) at slaughter points and samples were analyzed by Indirect Enzyme Linked Immuno-Sorbent Assay (ELISA) test kits specific for avian toxoplasmosis. Structured questionnaires were administered to the workers at LBMs to evaluate their attitudes and practices toward Toxoplasma infection. The overall prevalence for T. gondii antibodies was 7.83% (36/460). Gobarau yan kaji had a higher prevalence 9.06% (25) than Central market 5.98% (11). Mean score was 26.42±15.9 and 21.74±9.21 for attitude and practice respectively. There was a significant correlation r=0.717 (p <0.05) between attitude and practice score of the respondents. The level of education and specific duty at the slaughter houses correlated significantly (p <0.05) with attitude and practice mean ranks. There was no association (0.137) between experience on the job and practice score. Attitude and practice ranked as poor, fair and good in this study were 60% (30), 12% (6), 28% (14) and 80% (40), 6% (3), 14% (7) respectively. This result has shown the presence of T. gondii antibodies in local chickens slaughtered for human consumption in Katsina metropolis and this warns on the public health safety problems. There is urgent need for the implementation of public awareness campaign on toxoplasmosis for workers at LBMs in Katsina metropolis.

Keywords: Attitude, ELISA, Live Bird Market, Practice, Seroprevalence, Toxoplasmosis