Seroprevalence and associated risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii infections among pregnant women in Makassar, Indonesia

Abstract

The protozoan parasite, Toxoplasma gondii is estimated to infect one-third of the worlds population. Infection in pregnant women can cause severe conditions for their babies. Until now, there is no data regarding Toxoplasma infection from Makassar pregnant mothers. This study aims to obtain information on Toxoplasma specific antibodies and to measure the risk factor associate with parasite infection. This cross-sectional study conducted in 9 of 47 primary health centres (Puskesmas) in Makassar. Blood samples and questionnaires were collected from 184 pregnant women aged 15-42 years old from September to October 2020. ELISA technique was used to examine the IgG and IgM antibodies. Univariable and multivariable analyses were carried out to measure factors that independently associate with Toxoplasma antibody positivity. Our result showed the range of Toxoplasma IgM and IgG are 0.06-1.01 and 0.09-3.01, respectively. While no one of our participants has an acute Toxoplasma gondii infection (IgM positive), we found 32,6% pregnant mothers are exposed to parasite (positive IgG). Contact with cats [OR(95CI): 8.04 (3.09-20.87)], consume chicken satay [OR(95CI): 7.46(3.06-18.21)] and consume un-boiled water [OR(95CI): 5.23(1.57-17.38)] are independently associate with positive Toxoplasma IgG antibody. Based on the result, we conclude that pregnant women in Makassar are exposed to T. gondii and the cyst of parasite contaminates food and water in Makassar.