High seroprevalence and associated risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii infection in aborted ewes from Tebessa Province, Northeastern Algeria: A One Health perspective.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan responsible for reproductive losses in sheep and significant zoonotic transmission to humans. Despite its known presence in Algeria, regional epidemiological data remain inconsistent. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii and identify associated risk factors among aborted ewes in Tebessa Province, northeastern Algeria, within a One Health framework.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted from September 2019 to October 2020 across three communes (Tlidjen, Al Ater, and Negrine). Serum samples (n = 297) were collected from recently aborted Ouled Djellal ewes aged 2-5 years. Anti-T. gondii immunoglobulin G antibodies were detected using the Toxo-Screen DA direct agglutination test at a 1:40 dilution. Risk factors, including location, parity, gestational stage, farming system, and presence of carnivores, were analyzed by χ² tests and multivariate logistic regression using R v4.0.3.

RESULTS

The overall seroprevalence was 48.48% (144/297). Significant differences were observed across communes (Tlidjen 59.03%, Al Ater 42.72%, Negrine 30.00%; p < 0.001). Higher prevalence was recorded in sedentary (58.54%) than transhumant (26.09%) systems (odds ratio [OR] = 5.28; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.83-9.85; p < 0.001) and in farms with carnivores (63.31% vs. 28.91%; OR = 2.90; p < 0.001). Multiparous ewes were less likely to be seropositive than primiparous ones (OR = 0.55; p = 0.047). No significant association was found for gestation stage (OR = 1.58; p = 0.111).

CONCLUSION

The high seroprevalence of T. gondii in aborted ewes indicates active environmental transmission and considerable reproductive and zoonotic risks in Tebessa. Strengthened farm biosecurity, feline population management, and public awareness of meat hygiene are urgently needed. Integrating veterinary, environmental, and public health surveillance will improve toxoplasmosis control within the One Health framework.