PREVALENCE AND MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION OF TOXOPLASMA GONDII IN RETAIL RED MEAT SAMPLES ACROSS ERBIL GOVERNORATE, KURDISTAN REGION, IRAQ: IMPLICATIONS FOR FOOD SAFETY AND PUBLIC HEALTH
Kareem Hussein Ahmed, Hassan Ali Layla
1. Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Science, Knowledge University, Erbil 44001, Iraq
2. Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Science, Knowledge University, Erbil 44001, Iraq
Abstract
<p>Toxoplasma gondii, a widespread protozoan parasite, poses a significant public health challenge globally. This study aimed to detect anti-T. gondii antibodies in human blood samples using immunological tests and investigate potential risk factors. A total of 520 blood samples were collected from individuals aged 10 to 71 years and tested using latex, lateral flow assay, and Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results revealed varying seropositivity rates, with 23.3%, 25.4%, 20.2%, and 9.8% of samples testing positive for latex, lateral flow assay, ELISA IgG, and ELISA IgM, respectively. Notably, the elderly age group exhibited a higher prevalence of T. gondii antibodies, with seropositive rates of 26.1%, 27.5%, and 23.2% for latex, lateral flow assay, and ELISA IgG, respectively. The study identified two major risk factors associated with T. gondii infection: contact with raw meats and consumption of raw vegetables. These findings suggest that incorporating latex and lateral flow assays into routine screening can be a cost-effective strategy for T. gondii diagnosis. To reduce the risk of infection, consumers are strongly recommended to thoroughly cook animal-origin food and practice meticulous washing of vegetables and fruit before consumption. These measures play a crucial role in minimizing the transmission of T. gondii and protecting public health.</p>
Keywords
Nanomaterials
Energy Storage
Batteries
Sustainability
References
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