Toxoplasma gondii infestation among pregnant women In Mahajanga, Madagascar

Abstract

Toxoplasmosis is a public health concern mostly among pregnant women in developping countries.
The study aims to determine the seroprevalence of the infection on pregnant women, to identify
whether it is a recent or an old infection and to assess risk factors.
A prospective and detailed survey was then conducted from July to October 2016 at the the integrated
health centre of Mahabibo and the basic health centre of Tanambao Sotema in Mahajanga which is a
west north city of Madagascar. The blood specimens were collected and then sent to the University
Hospital Center Zafisaona Gabriel laboratory.
In whole, 49 subjects were investigated with a mean age of 25 years old. The seroprevalence of the old
infection (IgG+ and IgM-) was of 61% (n=30), non-immunized pregnant women (IgG- and IgM-)
represented a rate of 39% (n=19). None of them was diagnosed with an acute infection (IgG+ and
IgM+). No significant relation was associated between the infestation of Toxoplasma gondii and
household cats, neither with housekeeping occupation nor with education level, whether being aware
or not of the infection (p>0.05).
Toxoplasmosis is poorly known at Malagasy people. The seroprevalence in non-immunized pregnant
women and those at risk is revealed to be high.