Toxoplasma gondii infection in pig intended for human consumption: seroprevalence, risk factors and influence of biosecurity measures.

A serologic and epidemiologic study was carried out in order to determinate herd and animal seroprevalence and associated factors for Toxoplasma gondii in commercial pigs from Espírito Santo state, Brazil. Blood samples were collected from 416 pigs from 55 producer farms in 27 municipalities. An indirect immunofluorescent assay (IFA) was performed to estimate the seroprevalence of T. gondii and identify the associated risk factors using a questionnaire. The T. gondii antibody prevalence rate in commercial swine herds was 15.4% (64/416) using a cutoff of 1:64. The seropositivity for T. gondii was related to the presence of cats, water origin and age of swine in the increase of seroprevalence, and the existence of internal isolation fences and use of composting chambers as protective factors. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report anti- T. gondii antibodies in the serum of pigs in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil. This finding is important to public health because seropositive pigs can harbor tissue cysts in their meat, thereby representing a zoonotic risk for consumers of raw or undercooked porcine meat or its products.

Serological Evidence of Hepatitis E Virus Infection in Brazilian Equines.

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection has been demonstrated in various animal species; those recognized as potential zoonotic reservoirs pose a considerable risk to public health. In Brazil, HEV-3 is the only genotype identified in humans and swine nationwide, in a colony-breeding cynomolgus monkey and, recently, in bovines and capybara. There is no information regarding HEV exposure in the equine population in Brazil. This study aimed to investigate anti-HEV antibodies and viral RNA in serum samples from horses slaughtered for meat export and those bred for sport/reproduction purposes. We used a commercially available ELISA kit modified to detect species-specific anti-HEV, using an anti-horse IgG-peroxidase conjugate and evaluating different cutoff formulas and assay precision. Serum samples (n = 257) were tested for anti-HEV IgG and HEV RNA by nested RT-PCR and RT-qPCR. The overall anti-HEV seroprevalence was 26.5% (68/257) without the detection of HEV RNA. Most municipalities (53.3%) and farms (58.8%) had positive horses. Animals slaughtered for human consumption had higher risk of HEV exposure (45.5%) than those bred for sports or reproduction (6.4%) (p < 0.0001). The statistical analysis revealed sex and breeding system as possible risk-associated factors. The first serological evidence of HEV circulation in Brazilian equines reinforces the need for the surveillance of HEV host expansion in a one-health approach.

Toxoplasma gondii infection in pig intended for human consumption: seroprevalence, risk factors and influence of biosecurity measures / Infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em suínos destinados ao consumo humano: soroprevalência, fatores de risco e influência de medidas de biosseguridade

Abstract A serologic and epidemiologic study was carried out in order to determinate herd and animal seroprevalence and associated factors for Toxoplasma gondii in commercial pigs from Espírito Santo state, Brazil. Blood samples were collected from 416 pigs from 55 producer farms in 27 municipalities. An indirect immunofluorescent assay (IFA) was performed to estimate the seroprevalence of T. gondii and identify the associated risk factors using a questionnaire. The T. gondii antibody prevalence rate in commercial swine herds was 15.4% (64/416) using a cutoff of 1:64. The seropositivity for T. gondii was related to the presence of cats, water origin and age of swine in the increase of seroprevalence, and the existence of internal isolation fences and use of composting chambers as protective factors. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report anti- T. gondii antibodies in the serum of pigs in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil. This finding is important to public health because seropositive pigs can harbor tissue cysts in their meat, thereby representing a zoonotic risk for consumers of raw or undercooked porcine meat or its products.

Resumo Um estudo sorológico e epidemiológico foi realizado com o objetivo de determinar a soroprevalência nas granjas e animais e também em fatores associados para Toxoplasma gondii em suínos comerciais do estado do Espírito Santo, Brasil. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue de 416 suínos de 55 granjas produtoras de 27 municípios. A reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI) foi realizada com o uso de questionário, para estimar a soroprevalência do T. gondii e identificar os fatores de risco associados. A taxa de prevalência de anticorpos contra T. gondii, nos rebanhos comerciais de suínos, foi de 15,4% (64/416) com ponto de corte de 1:64. A soropositividade para T. gondii foi relacionada à presença de gatos, origem da água, a idade dos suínos no aumento da soroprevalência, a existência de cercas de isolamento interno e uso de câmaras de compostagem como fatores de proteção. De acordo com este estudo, ele é o primeiro a relatar anticorpos anti-T. gondii no soro de suínos no estado do Espírito Santo, Brasil. Este achado é importante para a saúde pública, pois suínos soropositivos podem abrigar cistos teciduais em suas carnes, representando um risco zoonótico para os consumidores de carne suína crua ou mal cozida ou seus produtos.

Socioeconomic profile, animal care, sanitary practices, and knowledge about parasites among owners of domestic dogs and cats treated in Rio de Janeiro city.

Urban canine and feline populations are expanding worldwide, a fact that can boost the transmission of zoonotic parasites. Thus, it is necessary understanding dog and cat owners' profile, as well as their perceptions about zoonoses, to develop preventive strategies based on the One Health approach. The aim of the current study is to compare the profile of dog and cat owners, whose domestic pets were treated at Jorge Vaitsman Veterinary Medicine Center, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Dog and cat owners, whose domestic pets were treated in the routine service of the aforementioned medical clinic, from August 2017 to November 2018, filled a structured questionnaire comprising closed questions in order to collect information about their socioeconomic profile, hygiene habits, animal care and knowledge about parasites. Comparative analysis was applied to data collected from dog and cat owners, based on using Fischer's Exact Test or Pearson's Chi-square. In total, 350 individuals - 244 dog owners and 106 cat owners - filled the questionnaire. The comparative analysis of socioeconomic profile, animal care, sanitary practices and knowledge about parasites did not show differences between dog and cat owners (p≥0.05). Animal vaccination and deworming practices were significantly more prevalent among dog owners than among cat owners (p≤0.05). Overall, respondents have shown lack of knowledge about parasitic zoonoses. Results in the current study have evidenced the need of mediating and promoting information about potentially zoonotic parasitic agents among domestic pet owners, as well as the key role played by veterinarians as mediators of primary prevention measures against these agents.

As populações urbanas de cães e gatos estão em expansão, o que pode facilitar a transmissão de parasitas zoonóticos. Nesse sentido, é necessário conhecer o perfil dos donos de cães e gatos e suas percepções sobre zoonoses para construir estratégias preventivas em uma abordagem em Saúde Única. Este estudo teve como objetivo comparar o perfil dos donos de cães e gatos atendidos no Centro de Medicina Veterinária Jorge Vaitsman, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Entre agosto de 2017 e novembro de 2018, proprietários de cães e gatos atendidos na rotina da clínica médica responderam a um questionário estruturado composto por questões fechadas relacionadas ao seu perfil socioeconômico, hábitos de higiene, cuidados com os animais e conhecimento sobre parasitas. A análise comparativa dos dados obtidos de proprietários de cães e gatos foi realizada por meio do Teste Exato de Fischer ou Qui-quadrado de Pearson. No total, 350 indivíduos responderam ao questionário, sendo 244 donos de cães e 106 donos de gatos. A análise comparativa do perfil socioeconômico, cuidados com os animais, práticas sanitárias e conhecimento sobre parasitos não mostrou diferenças entre proprietários de cães e gatos (p≥0,05). As práticas de vacinação e desparasitação dos animais foram significativamente mais frequentes entre os donos de cães do que entre os donos de gatos (p≤0,05). De maneira geral, foi possível evidenciar entre as respostas recuperadas um desconhecimento sobre zoonoses parasitárias. Os resultados obtidos evidenciam a necessidade de mediação e divulgação de informações sobre agentes parasitários potencialmente zoonóticos para os proprietários, destacando os veterinários, no papel de mediadores das medidas de prevenção primária contra esses agentes.

Toxoplasma gondii in domiciled dogs and cats in urban areas of Brazil: risk factors and spatial distribution.

Toxoplasma gondii is a highly prevalent zoonotic parasite in Brazil capable of infecting mammals and birds. The increase in the urban populations of pets and the narrowing of the human-animal relationship can facilitate the transmission of important public health zoonoses, such as toxoplasmosis. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency and spatial distribution of T. gondii infection and its risk factors in domiciled dogs and cats attended at the Jorge Vaitsman Institute, Rio de Janeiro. Serum samples from 400 dogs and 272 cats were evaluated by an indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) for IgG anti-T. gondii antibodies. Epidemiological questionnaires were used to interview the animals' owners to identify risk factors for infection. Of the total, 34% (136/400) of dogs and 8.1% (22/272) of cats had anti-T. gondii antibodies. Breed (OR: 2.10-95%, CI 1.27-3.46) was a risk factor for dogs, while sex (OR: 3.40-95%, CI 1.10-10.52) and homemade food consumption (OR: 8.49-95%, CI 2.48-29.05) were risk factors for cats. Offal consumption was considered a risk factor for both species evaluated (OR: 2.74-95%, CI 1.38-5.43 for dogs; OR: 7.66-95%, CI 1.24-47.29 for cats). The spatial analysis showed that T. gondii seropositive animals were widely distributed in the metropolitan region of Rio de Janeiro state, with a concentration observed mainly in the west and north zones of Rio de Janeiro city. The results emphasize the importance of adopting prophylactic measures to control T. gondii transmission in domiciled dogs and cats in Rio de Janeiro, contributing positively to public health.

TITLE: Toxoplasma gondii chez les chiens et les chats domiciliés dans des zones urbaines du Brésil : facteurs de risque et répartition spatiale. ABSTRACT: Toxoplasma gondii est un parasite zoonotique très répandu au Brésil, capable d'infecter les mammifères et les oiseaux. L'augmentation des populations urbaines d'animaux de compagnie et le rétrécissement de la relation homme-animal peuvent faciliter la transmission de zoonoses importantes pour la santé publique, telles que la toxoplasmose. Cette étude visait à évaluer la fréquence et la distribution spatiale de l'infection à T. gondii et ses facteurs de risque chez les chiens et les chats domiciliés qui ont fréquenté l'Institut Jorge Vaitsman de Rio de Janeiro. Des échantillons de sérum de 400 chiens et 272 chats ont été évalués par un test d'immunofluorescence indirecte (IFAT) pour les anticorps IgG anti-T. gondii. Des questionnaires épidémiologiques ont été appliqués aux propriétaires des animaux pour identifier les facteurs de risque d'infection. Sur le total, 34 % (136/400) des chiens et 8,1 % (22/272) des chats avaient des anticorps anti-T. gondii. La race (OR : 2,10-95 %, IC 1,27-3,46) était un facteur de risque pour les chiens, tandis que le sexe (OR : 3,40-95 %, IC 1,10-10,52) et la consommation d'aliments faits maison (OR : 8,49-95 % IC 2,48-29,05) l'étaient pour les chats. La consommation d'abats a été considérée comme un facteur de risque pour les deux espèces évaluées (OR : 2,74-95 %, IC 1,38-5,43 pour les chiens; OR : 7,66-95 %, IC 1,24-47,29 pour les chats). L'analyse spatiale a montré que les animaux séropositifs pour T. gondii étaient largement répartis dans la région métropolitaine de l'État de Rio de Janeiro, avec une concentration observée principalement dans les zones ouest et nord de la ville de Rio de Janeiro. Les résultats soulignent l'importance d'adopter des mesures prophylactiques pour contrôler la transmission de T. gondii chez les chiens et les chats domiciliés à Rio de Janeiro, contribuant positivement à la santé publique.

Intestinal parasites and risk factors in dogs and cats from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The urban populations of pets, mainly dogs and cats, have been growing in recent years and, consequently, human-animal relationships have become increasingly closer. However, pets are vulnerable to infection by various parasites, as well are their owners due to the zoonotic potential of these agents. This study aimed to assess the frequency and risk factors of intestinal parasites in dogs and cats attended at the Municipal Institute of Veterinary Medicine Jorge Vaitsman, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, as well as georeferencing the parasitized animals. A total of 608 animals (400 dogs and 208 cats) were enrolled from August 2017 to November 2018. Fecal samples were obtained from the animal's rectum during clinical examination. In addition, the owners of the enrolled dogs and cats were asked to complete an epidemiological questionnaire with questions about the animals' general information, lifestyle, and handling. Fecal samples were subjected to sedimentation and centrifugal-flotation in sucrose solution techniques. The frequencies of intestinal parasites total in dogs and cats were 11.3% and 24.5%, respectively, with hookworms being the most detected parasites in dogs (8.3%) and Dipylidium caninum in cats (12.5%). Sex was the only variable that showed statistical differences in the canine population males being more often infected than female (p < 0.05), while street access was associated with parasitic infections in cats (p < 0.05). The results obtained in this study demonstrate the need to control parasitic infections in domiciled dogs and cats in different municipalities in the metropolitan region of the state of Rio de Janeiro, including residents in the northern, western and central areas.

Genetic and histopathological characterization of Toxoplasma gondii genotypes isolated from free-range chickens reared in the metropolitan region of Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil.

This study aimed to genetically characterize Toxoplasma gondii isolates obtained from free-range chickens reared in the metropolitan region of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and to evaluate the morbidity and histological changes associated with these isolates in mice. A mouse bioassay was used to isolate T. gondii from a pool of tissue samples (brain, heart, and thigh muscles) collected from 163 chickens. The 36 isolates obtained were genetically characterized by restriction fragment polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) analysis of the SAG1, 5'-3'SAG2, aSAG2, SAG3, BTUB, GRA6, c22-8, c29-2, L358, PK1, Apico, and CS3 genomic regions. Seventeen atypical genotypes were identified and nine of them were reported for the first time. All identified genotypes caused clinical signs and histological changes in mice, with the majority being associated with high cumulative morbidity (65%) and severe or very severe histological changes (76%). The exclusive identification of atypical genotypes, with a predominance of new genotypes, indicates great genetic diversity of T. gondii in the region studied. In addition, the finding that all identified genotypes caused clinical signs and often severe histological changes in mice suggests potentially relevant virulence of these strains.

Occurrence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies and risk factors associated with infection in equids slaughtered for human consumption in Brazil.

Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide zoonosis caused by Toxoplasma gondii. Ingestion of raw/undercooked meat is considering an important route of infection. Consumption of meat from equids is common in European and Asian countries and an increase in Brazil has been observed. The aim of this study was to evaluate occurrences of anti-T. gondii antibodies and risk factors relating to infection in equids slaughtered for human consumption in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Blood samples from 192 horses and 208 donkeys were collected in the exsanguination area during the slaughter. Serum samples were subjected to the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). Association analysis was performed using Pearson's chi-square test (χ2) or Fisher's exact test, to evaluate risk factors relating to the prevalence of seroreagents. Antibodies against T. gondii were found in 13.5% of the equids, with higher occurrence in horses (18.75%) than in donkeys (8.65%). Associations between seropositivity and the following variables were found (p ≤ 0.05): species, animal origin, purpose of rearing and source of water for animal consumption and contact with cats. Farms need to implement preventive measures to control T. gondii infection in these species and avert transmission of the parasite to the human population that will consume their meat.

Increasing the Efficiency of Spontaneous Sedimentation for the Diagnosis of Intestinal Protozoa.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between a longer sedimentation time, the reading of a larger number of slides, and the collection of multiple samples on the efficiency of the spontaneous sedimentation technique. Twenty-two patients with a previous parasitological exam positive for intestinal protozoa were recruited to collect new fecal samples (3 samples per patient) before the beginning of antiparasitic treatment. All collected fecal samples were used for spontaneous sedimentation and centrifuge-flotation techniques. Of these, all 22 patients were positive based on spontaneous sedimentation, and 59.1% (13/22) based on centrifuge flotation. The number of samples and the number of slides analyzed by spontaneous sedimentation influenced the number of positive cases. The modifications applied to the spontaneous sedimentation technique increased its performance in protozoa diagnosis.

Frequency of enteroparasitoses in preschool children attending daycare centers: a survey applying parasitological and immunological methods

The present study evaluated the frequency of intestinal parasitoses in children in public day care centers applying parasitological and immunological diagnostic methods. Fecal samples from 121 children from six public daycare centers were analyzed using parasitological techniques. Epidemiological data were obtained through a questionnaire, where parents and / or guardians were asked, for instance, whether the children had contact with soil, ate raw food, such as vegetables or raw or undercooked meat, normally walked around barefoot or had contact with animals. Fecal samples from 82 children were also tested for Giardia intestinalis and Cryptosporidium sp. coproantigen using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) which was also used for Entamoeba coproantigen detection only in samples that tested positive for the parasite by parasitological stool exam/optical microscopy. Intestinal parasite infection was noted in 23.1% (28/121) of the children. The most frequent parasite was Giardia intestinalis (13.2%), followed by Entamoeba coli (5.8%), Blastocystis spp. (1.7%), Endolimax nana (1.7%), Enterobius vermicularis (1.7%), Cystoisospora belli (0.8%), Entamoeba histolytica/E. dispar complex (0.8%), and Ascaris lumbricoides (0.8%). Positivity for parasite infection using parasitological stool exams was significantly associated with age groups, with a higher frequency in 4 to 6 year old children (p=0.03). No association or significant variations were noted in the prevalence of intestinal parasites in relation to the epidemiological variables studied. All samples were negative for Cryptosporidium sp. and Entamoeba histolytica detected by immunological testing, and 17.1% (14/82) children tested positive for Giardia intestinalis, although using parasitological exam/optical microscopy, only 14.6% (12/82) tested positive. The high incidence of intestinal parasites, especially protozoans, suggests probable interpersonal transmission among the children, environmental contamination, or even contaminated food/water intake. Thus, consolidation of preventive measures and efficient diagnostic resources as well as control of intestinal parasites and patient treatment are of utmost importance

Toxoplasma gondii molecular and immunological identification and risk factors associated with infection in chicken slaughtered at Triângulo Mineiro region, Minas Gerais, Brazil / Identificação molecular e imunológica de Toxoplasma gondii e fatores de risco associados com infecção em galinhas abatidas na região do Triângulo Mineiro, Minas Gerais, Brasil

This study aimed to determine the occurrence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in the serum of slaughtered chickens in the region of Triângulo Mineiro, Minas Gerais, Brazil, to detect the parasite in tissues (heart and brain) of serologically positive chickens, based on molecular analysis, and to investigate risk variables associated with the infection. Sera from 417 chickens raised in extensive, semi-intensive, and intensive production systems were tested by an indirect immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and indirect hemagglutination antibody test (IHA). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to detect T. gondii DNA in brain and heart tissues. Antibody anti-T. gondii were found in 37.65% (157/417) of chickens by IFAT, and in 75.06% (313/417) by IHA. The Kappa index showed a weak concordance between the techniques (0.087). Association was observed between seropositivity and the variables, age (p < 0.0001), type of feeding (p < 0.0001) and collective raising with other animal's species (p < 0.0001). Association, based on IFAT, was not observed between seropositivity and the variables, sex (p = 0.0526), presence of cats (p > 0.9999), and presence of rats (p > 0.9999). Presence of parasite DNA was detected in brain samples from two chickens, which were raised in intensive and semi-intensive production systems. The results suggest the meat of these slaughtered animals may serve as a transmission source of this protozoan to humans.(AU)

O objetivo do presente estudo foi determinar a frequência de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii em soro de galinhas abatidas na região do Triângulo Mineiro, Minas Gerais, detectar molecularmente o parasito em tecidos (coração e cérebro) de algumas das aves sorologicamente positivas e averiguar variáveis de risco associadas à infecção. Foram testados soros de 417 galinhas, criadas nos sistemas extensivo, semi-intensivo e intensivo. Para a pesquisa de anticorpos anti-T. gondii foi utilizada a Reação de Imunofluorescência Indireta (RIFI) e Hemaglutinação Indireta (HAI). A Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR) foi utilizada para detectar o DNA de T. gondii em fragmentos de cérebro e coração. Anticorpos foram detectados no soro de 37,65% (157/417) das aves pela RIFI e em 75,06% (313/417) pela HAI. O índice Kappa mostrou uma fraca concordância entre as técnicas (0,087). Baseado na RIFI, foi verificada associação estatisticamente significativa (p < 0,0001) entre a soropositividade e as variáveis: idade, tipo de alimentação e criação em conjunto com outras espécies animais. Não foi observada associação estatística (p > 0,01) entre as variáveis: sexo, presença de gatos e presença de ratos. Pelo diagnóstico molecular DNA do parasito foi detectado em duas amostras de cérebro, de indivíduos diferentes criados em sistema intensivo e semi-intensivo. Os resultados indicam a possibilidade de a carne dessas aves poderem atuar como fonte de infecção deste protozoário para o homem.(AU)

Congenital toxoplasmosis: perception of knowledge and primary prevention measures among healthcare professionals and pregnant women treated in public healthcare facilities / Toxoplasmose congênita: percepção do conhecimento e medidas de prevenção primária entre profissionais de saúde e gestantes atendidas em unidades públicas de saúde

AIMS: To evaluate knowledge about toxoplasmosis among pregnant women and healthcare professionals and to evaluate the knowledge acquired by pregnant women after health education actions. METHODSethods: Five hundred pregnant women and 141 healthcare professionals from health units in Niterói, state of Rio de Janeiro, answered a questionnaire, received information about toxoplasmosis and had access to an interactive educational model and to folders between 2013 and 2016. After 3 months, 145 pregnant women answered the questionnaire once again. RESULTS: Of 500 pregnant women, 226 (45.2%) reported having heard about toxoplasmosis. Among these, 23.5% had obtained information from friends and 19.0% from their doctors. About their exposure to risk factors, 6.8% had had contact with cat feces; 14.0% had had contact with soil without gloves; 23.4% had ingested undercooked meat; and 24.0% had drunk unfiltered water from the public supply system. The questionnaires of 145 pregnant women before and after the educational activities were compared and showed that contact with soil without gloves dropped significantly from 11.0% to 4.8% (p = 0.022) while consumption of unfiltered water fell from 26.9% to 20.0% (p < 0.001). Washing foods (62.1%), washing hands (62.1%) and consumption of well-cooked meat (61.4%) were the most widely cited preventive measures. Many mistakes were reported among healthcare professionals, and one nursing technician and 13 community healthcare agents (9.9%) had not heard about toxoplasmosis. CONCLUSIONS: Lack of knowledge about toxoplasmosis by most of the interviewed pregnant women, in addition to the misconceptions observed among healthcare professionals, leads to the conclusion that little importance has been given so far to primary prevention of toxoplasmosis during the prenatal period. Also, health professionals' inadequate knowledge could be detrimental to secondary prevention, which consists of early detection and treatment of toxoplasmosis during pregnancy. In this study, educational intervention contributed to improving knowledge about the transmission and prevention of toxoplasmosis by pregnant women and, to a lesser extent, to reducing exposure to some risk factors.

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar o conhecimento da toxoplasmose entre gestantes e profissionais de saúde e avaliar o conhecimento adquirido pelas gestantes após ações de educação em saúde. MÉTODOS: Quinhentas gestantes e 141 profissionais de saúde provenientes de Unidades de Saúde de Niterói-RJ de 2013 a 2016, foram entrevistados por meio de um questionário, receberam informações sobre a toxoplasmose, tiveram acesso a um modelo educativo interativo e folders. Após três meses, 145 gestantes responderam novamente ao questionário. RESULTADOS: Das 500 gestantes, 226 (45,2%) relataram que já tinham ouvido falar sobre toxoplasmose. Destas, 23,5% tiveram informações por amigos e 19,0% pelo médico. Sobre exposição aos fatores de risco, 6,8% relataram contato com fezes de gatos; 14,0% tiveram contato com o solo sem luvas; 23,4% ingeriam carne mal passada; e 24,0% bebiam água de abastecimento público sem filtrar. Ao comparar os questionários de 145 gestantes antes e após atividades educativas, o contato com o solo sem uso de luvas teve redução significativa de 11,0% para 4,8% (p=0,022) e o consumo de água sem filtro reduziu de 26,9% para 20,0% (p=0,001). Foram mais citados como medidas preventivas a lavagem dos alimentos (62,1%), a lavagem das mãos (62,1%) e o consumo de carne bem cozida (61,4%). Dentre os profissionais de saúde, muitos erros foram relatados e um técnico de enfermagem e 13 agentes comunitários de saúde (9,9%) não conheciam a toxoplasmose. CONCLUSÕES: A falta de conhecimento sobre a toxoplasmose pela maioria das gestantes entrevistadas, além de concepções equivocadas por parte dos profissionais de saúde, levam à conclusão de que vem sendo dada pouca importância para a prevenção primária da toxoplasmose durante o período pré-natal. Adicionalmente, algumas falhas no conhecimento dos profissionais podem prejudicar até mesmo a prevenção secundária, que consiste na detecção e tratamento precoce da toxoplasmose na gestação. Neste estudo, a intervenção educacional contribuiu para aumentar o conhecimento sobre a transmissão e a prevenção da toxoplasmose entre as gestantes e, em menor extensão, para reduzir a exposição a alguns fatores de risco.

Recovery of Toxoplasma gondii DNA in experimentally mummified skin and bones: Prospects for paleoparasitological studies to unveil the origin of toxoplasmosis.

Paleoparasitology studies parasite infections by finding the parasites' remains in preserved organic remains such as natural or artificial mummy tissues, skeletons, teeth, and coprolites, among others. However, some currently important infections like toxoplasmosis have not been studied by paleoparasitology. The reasons include this parasite's complex life cycle, the resulting difficulties in locating this protozoan in the intermediate host tissues, and the limitation of coprolite studies to felines, the protozoan's definitive host. The current study thus aimed to produce an experimental model for molecular diagnosis of toxoplasmosis, prioritizing its study in bones and skin, the most abundant materials in archeological collections and sites. The study demonstrated the feasibility of recovering Toxoplasma gondii DNA from desiccated material, including bones and skin, in experimental models both with circulating tachyzoites (RH strain), characteristic of acute infection, and with cysts (ME49 cystogenic strain), characteristic of chronic infection. At present, most individuals with T. gondii infection are in the chronic phase, and the same was probably true in the past. The current study thus expands the odds of finding the parasite in archeological material, enhanced by the nature of the material in which the diagnosis was made. Finding the parasite may help answer questions that are widely debated in the literature on this protozoan's origin (Old World versus New World). In addition, when conditions do not allow ideal storage of samples for molecular tests, the methodology creates the possibility of testing oven-dried samples transported at room temperature.

Knowledge about parasite infections among pregnant and postpartum women who attended a university hospital in Niteroi, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Parasite infections are frequent in Brazil during pregnancy. The aim of the present study was to assess the knowledge about parasite infections among pregnant and post-partum women, attending a public University Hospital in Niteroi, RJ, Brazil. Knowledge was assessed using a standardized interview and questionnaire. A total of 100 interviews were conducted (60 pregnant and 40 post-partum women). Educational achievement did not influence knowledge about parasites. The majority of the women interviewed stated that they habitually always washed hands after using the bathroom and before eating. Consumption of fruits and vegetables was prevalent, but 17% did not wash them before eating and 39% ate raw or undercooked meat. Educational achievement and number of pregnancies did not influence hygiene habits. Neither the late pre-natal care nor the number of pregnancies influenced knowledge about parasites. Also, there was no correlation between the initial date of pre-natal care and the number of correct answers in the questionnaire. Similarly, there was no association between the initial date of pre-natal care and receiving information about parasite infections. 79% of the women interviewed stated that they had never received any information about parasite infection and pregnancy, and the harm it could cause to them and/or their baby. Despite advances in pre-natal care assistance in the last decade, the lack of knowledge among pregnant and post-partum women regarding parasites and risk factors for infection still remains.

Toxoplasmosis-related knowledge among pregnant and postpartum women attended in public health units in Niterói, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil.

The present study conducted a toxoplasmosis-related knowledge level survey with 400 pregnant and puerperal women attended in public health units in the municipality of Niterói, Rio de Janeiro. Only 111 (27.8%) women claimed to know about the disease. Most of them (n = 289; 72.2%) had never heard about toxoplasmosis nor knew how to prevent the infection by Toxoplasma gondii. A significant difference (p = 0.013) regarding the presence of anti-T. gondii IgG was observed between women who claimed to know about the disease and those who had never heard about it. These results highlight the importance of a systematic serological screening process for toxoplasmosis, as well as the importance of primary prevention by accurate information during prenatal care, an important Public Health action to be implemented.

Toxoplasmosis-rllated knowledge among pregnant nd postpartum women attended inn public health units in niterói, rio de janeiro, Braill / Conhecimento sobre toxoplasmose entre gestantes e puérperas atendidas na rede pública de saúde do município de Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

The present study conducted a toxoplasmosis-related knowledge level survey with 400 pregnant and puerperal women attended in public health units in the municipality of Niterói, Rio de Janeiro. Only 111 (27.8%) women claimed to know about the disease. Most of them (n = 289; 72.2%) had never heard about toxoplasmosis nor knew how to prevent the infection by Toxoplasma gondii. A significant difference (p = 0.013) regarding the presence of anti-T. gondii IgG was observed between women who claimed to know about the disease and those who had never heard about it. These results highlight the importance of a systematic serological screening process for toxoplasmosis, as well as the importance of primary prevention by accurate information during prenatal care, an important Public Health action to be implemented.

Este estudo teve por objetivo realizar um levantamento do conhecimento de 400 gestantes e puérperas atendidas na rede pública de saúde do município de Niterói, Estado do Rio de Janeiro sobre a toxoplasmose. Apenas 111 (27,8%) participantes relataram conhecer a doença. A maioria 289 (72,2%) nunca ouviu falar sobre a toxoplasmose, principalmente sobre as formas de prevenção da infecção pelo Toxoplasma gondii. Foi encontrada diferença significativa entre as pacientes que disseram conhecer a toxoplasmose e aquelas que relataram desconhecer a doença com relação à presença de anticorpos IgG anti- T.gondii (p = 0,013). Estes resultados permitem ressaltar a importância do rastreamento sorológico sistemático na infecção toxoplásmica, bem como a prevenção primária por meio de informações corretas durante o pré-natal, sendo esta uma importante medida de saúde pública a ser implementada.

Seroepidemiology Toxoplasma gondii infection in students of veterinary medicine and other courses of public universities in Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil

The aim of this study was to estimate the serum prevalence of Toxoplasma infection in two groups ofuniversity students: Veterinary Medicine (VM) and Other Courses (OC). Students from two public universities in the state of Rio de Janeiro were investigated to identify risk habits and behaviors for Toxoplasma gondii infection, and to guide primary prevention. All 839 students answered aquestionnaire about habits and behaviors (347 OC and 492 VM). A serum prevalence of 21.8 percent was observed by indirect immunofluorescence (IFA) and ELISA. No statistically significant difference was observed between students of the universities. Serum prevalence (IFA and ELISA IgG) was16.1 percent in VM and 29.9 percent in OC. Six students were IgM seropositive, of which five were onlypositive in ELISA and one was positive with both diagnostic techniques (ELISA and IFA). Amongthose students, four were in the control group from UFF and one in each group from UFRRJ. The prevalence of students seropositive for toxoplasmosis was low in both universities and the resultsobtained suggest that veterinary students are probably not exposed to a higher risk than the generalpopulation for acquiring toxoplasmosis. Age, contact with cats, consumption of undercooked orraw meat, contact with campus soil and ignorance of prophylactic measures for toxoplasmosis werepositively associated with prevalence of infection by T. gondii.

O objetivo deste estudo foi estimar a soroprevalência da infecção toxoplásmica em dois grupos de universitários, de Medicina Veterinária (MV) e de Outros Cursos (OC), de duas instituições públicas de ensino do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, buscando identificar hábitos e comportamentos de risco para infecção por este protozoário, e orientando sobre a prevenção primária. Dos 839 universitários, 492 eram da MV e 347 de OC. Todos os acadêmicos responderam a um questionário sobre seus hábitos e costumes. A soroprevalência (RIFI e ELISA IgG) foi de 16,1 por cento na MV e 29,9 por cento nos OC. Seis estudantes foram IgM soro reagentes, dos quais cinco eram apenas positivos no ELISA e um era positivo em ambas as técnicas de diagnóstico (ELISA e RIFI). Entre os estudantes, quatro eram do grupo de controle da UFF e um em cada grupo da UFRRJ. A prevalência de universitários soros reagentes para a toxoplasmose nas duas Universidades foi baixa e os resultados obtidos neste estudo sugerem que provavelmente os estudantes de Medicina Veterinária não estão expostos a um risco maior que os de outros cursos de adquirir a toxoplasmose. A idade, o contato com gatos, com o solo do campus, o consumo de carne crua ou mal-passada e o desconhecimento sobre a profilaxia da toxoplasmose influenciaram na prevalência da infecção por T. gondii.

Prevalence and risk factors for Toxoplasma gondii infection among pregnant and postpartum women attended at public healthcare facilities in the City of Niterói, State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

INTRODUCTION: To determine the prevalence of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies among pregnant and postpartum women attended within the public healthcare system in Niterói, State of Rio de Janeiro,and to detect possible exposure factors associated with T. gondii infection in this population. METHODS: IgM and IgG anti- T. gondii antibodies were investigated in 276 pregnant and 124 postpartum women by using the indirect immunofluorescence (IFAT) and immunoenzymatic assay (ELISA) techniques. The participants were selected by convenience sampling. All these 400 patients filled out a free and informed consent statement, answered an epidemiological questionnaire and were informed about the disease. RESULTS: Among the 400 samples analyzed, 234 (58.5%) were reactive to IgG anti-T. gondii antibodies, according to the IFAT and/or ELISA assay. One pregnant woman was found to be reactive to IgM anti- T. gondii antibodies, with an intermediate IgG avidity test. Risk factor analysis showed that seropositivity was significantly associated (p<0.05) with age, contact with cats and presence of rodents at home. Through a logistic regression model, these associations were confirmed for age and contact with cats, while education at least of the high school level was found to be a protective factor. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence rate of IgG anti-T. gondii antibodies in the city of Niterói was high and the risk factors for infection detected after multivariate analysis were: age over 30 years, contact with cats and education levels lower than university graduate level.

Prevalence and risk factors for Toxoplasma gondii infection among pregnant and postpartum women attended at public healthcare facilities in the City of Niterói, State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Introduction To determine the prevalence of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies among pregnant and postpartum women attended within the public healthcare system in Niterói, State of Rio de Janeiro, and to detect possible exposure factors associated with T. gondii infection in this population. Methods IgM and IgG anti-T. gondii antibodies were investigated in 276 pregnant and 124 postpartum women by using the indirect immunofluorescence (IFAT) and immunoenzymatic assay (ELISA) techniques. The participants were selected by convenience sampling. All these 400 patients filled out a free and informed consent statement, answered an epidemiological questionnaire and were informed about the disease. Results Among the 400 samples analyzed, 234 (58.5%) were reactive to IgG anti-T. gondii antibodies, according to the IFAT and/or ELISA assay. One pregnant woman was found to be reactive to IgM anti-T. gondii antibodies, with an intermediate IgG avidity test. Risk factor analysis showed that seropositivity was significantly associated (p<0.05) with age, contact with cats and presence of rodents at home. Through a logistic regression model, these associations were confirmed for age and contact with cats, while education at least of the high school level was found to be a protective factor. Conclusions The prevalence rate of IgG anti-T. gondii antibodies in the City of Niterói was high and the risk factors for infection detected after multivariate analysis were: age over 30 years, contact with cats and education levels lower than university graduate level. .