Spread of Toxoplasma gondii among animals and humans in Northern Italy: A retrospective analysis in a One-Health framework

• DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2023.e00197
• Publication Date: 2023-06-08T03:34:43Z
• Authors: F.M. Dini; S. Morselli; A. Marangoni; R. Taddei; G. Maioli; G. Roncarati; A. Balboni; F. Dondi; F. Lunetta; R. Galuppi
• Keywords: Toxoplasmosis; Parasitic Disease; Zoonosis

Toxoplasmosis occurs worldwide and is considered one of the most important food-borne parasitic zoonoses. The consumption undercooked meat containing viable tissue cysts ingestion environmental oocyst are sources infection. aim this retrospective study was to evaluate spread Toxoplasma gondii in province Bologna (Emilia-Romagna region) northern Italy, with a One Health approach, comparing seropositivity rates different animal species humans over last 19 4 years respectively. Analyses were performed on serological data collected periods at three separate locations: Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e Emilia-Romagna (IZSLER); Veterinary University Hospital Clinical Pathology Service, Department Medical Sciences, Bologna; Unit Microbiology, St. Orsola Hospital, Bologna. Most relevant observed animals 15.5% (wild boar), 25% (roe deer), 18.7% (goat), 29.9% (sheep), 9.7% (pigs), 42.9% 21.8% cat dog, A comprehensive screening conducted population 36,814 individuals, revealing prevalence 20.4%. Among pregnant women, frequence 0.39% for active toxoplasmosis observed. Despite certain limitations, provided valuable insights into extensive distribution infection among diverse human populations These findings underscore importance implementing consistent proactive protocols during pregnancy, while emphasizing critical need adopting approach effective control disease.