Seroprevalence of Toxocara canis infection and associated risk factors among primary schoolchildren in rural Southern Thailand

• DOI: 10.1186/s41182-020-00211-0
• Publication Date: 2020-04-22T08:02:39Z
• Authors: Nonthapan Phasuk; Chuchard Punsawad
• Keywords: Seroprevalence; Zoonosis

Abstract Background Human toxocariasis is a parasitic zoonosis caused by parasite in the genus Toxocara and transmitted mainly accidental ingestion of embryonated canis (dog roundworm) or T. cati (cat eggs. Several studies reported that children were main population at risk for infection. Currently, no reports on seroprevalence infection Thailand are available, its status remains unknown among who live rural areas southern Thailand. Objective This study aimed to investigate associated factors primary schoolchildren Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Methods A total 177 between 6 13 years age recruited June July 2019. Serum anti- IgG antibodies detected with commercial ELISA kit. questionnaire administered direct interviews was used collect demographic behavioral factor data. Results The overall 58.2% (103 177). univariate analysis revealed did not practice handwashing before meal (crude odds ratio (COR) = 3.67, 95% CI 1.93–6.95, P < 0.001), hand washing after animal contact (COR 2.89, 1.53–5.47, drank untreated water 1.87, 1.00–3.48, 0.049) had an increased acquiring However, adjusting confounders, only lack remained significant (adjusted (AOR) 2.20, 1.11–4.34, 0.023). Age, sex, owning dog, eating fresh vegetables significantly current study. Conclusions first serological investigation high rate seropositivity reflected levels exposure results also provide baseline data regarding modifiable behaviors effective prevention strategies Thailand, especially strengthening practices schoolchildren.