Human Toxocariasis in Israel: A Nationwide Serology-Based Analysis, 2005-2019.
Am J Trop Med Hyg
; 2022 Feb 21.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-35189593
ABSTRACT
Toxocariasis is a rare and underdiagnosed disease, and data concerning epidemiological aspects of toxocariasis in Israel are lacking. We describe the epidemiology of toxocariasis in Israel. Epidemiological data of all serology tests between 2005 and 2019 were retrieved and compared with detailed demographics. Overall, 464 positive cases from a total of 10,896 tests conducted were identified, reflecting a mean positivity rate of 4.4% (yearly range, 2-22%). Over the years, a significant increase in yearly tests was noted, without a parallel change in the positivity rate. The greatest positivity was noted among males and children (< 18 years). No differences were noted when comparing urban/rural and Jewish/non-Jewish sub-groups. A significant correlation between toxocariasis incidence and dog ownership rate was observed in major cities (r[8] = 0.82, P < 0.005). Our study shows that, in Israel, toxocariasis is not restricted to specific populations or locations. The risk factor of dog contacts was reiterated by nationwide dog registration data. There is need for a seroprevalence survey to understand the disease situation more fully.
Full text:
1
Database:
MEDLINE
Type of study:
Prognostic_studies
/
Risk_factors_studies
Language:
En
Journal:
Am J Trop Med Hyg
Year:
2022
Type:
Article
Affiliation country:
Israel