Keywords
ewes
prevalence
state of Santa Catarina
How to Cite
Abstract
Sheep are highly susceptible to Toxoplasma gondii infection, andit might cause reproductive problems in
infected 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 mountainous
environment of Santa Catarina state-Brazil, were collected for performing anti-T. gondii antibodies testing by
indirect 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 on
the 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. gondii
infection in ewes has been widespread in the mountainous region of Santa Catarina, which has represented
a risk to public health.
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