DOI: https://doi.org/10.52379/mcs.v10.663

Seroprevalence and Risk Factors for Toxoplasmosis in Humans and Domestic Dogs from Central Department–Paraguay, 2023–2024

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Authors

  • Emilia Montserrat Delvalle Leguizamón Universidad Nacional de Asunción , Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud
  • Cecilia González Vatteone Universidad Nacional de Asunción , Facultad de Ciencias Químicas
  • Sady Britez Universidad Nacional de Asunción , Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud
  • Ivalena De Guillén Universidad Nacional de Asunción , Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud
  • Laura Aria Zaya Universidad Nacional de Asunción , Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud
  • Cinthia Bernal Universidad Nacional de Asunción , Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud
  • Alejandra Rojas Universidad Nacional de Asunción , Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud
  • María acosta Universidad Nacional de Asunción , Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud

Keywords:

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Abstract

Introduction: Toxoplasmosis is a zoonosis caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, which infects warm-blooded animals, including humans. Environmental, behavioral, and sociodemographic factors influenced its transmission, requiring an integrated One Health approach. Objective: To determine the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with toxoplasmosis in humans and domestic dogs in the Central Department, Paraguay. Methodology:An analytical cross-sectional observational study with convenience sampling was conducted. In the first stage, IgG antibodies against T. gondii were measured in 133 people over 18 years and 52 dogs. In the second stage, humans were classified as seropositive or seronegative. Both groups completed a structured questionnaire to assess sociodemographic characteristics, hygienic-dietary habits, and knowledge about the parasitosis, identifying possible factors associated with infection. Results: Seroprevalence was 41.35% in humans and 40.38% in dogs. In humans, seropositivity increased significantly with age. Consumption of raw vegetables and low frequency of washing fruits and vegetables were identified as possible associated factors, although without statistical significance. Greater knowledge about toxoplasmosis was significantly associated with a lower probability of being seropositive (p = 0.0251). In dogs, being rescued and exclusive feeding with commercial feed were significantly associated with seropositivity (p = 0.034). Conclusion: The results highlighted the importance of strengthening health education and preventive measures in humans and domestic animals, considering the interaction among human, animal, and environmental health.

 

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Author Biography

  • Cinthia Bernal, Universidad Nacional de Asunción , Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud

    Bioquímica , Master en Ciencias BIomédicas 

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Published

04/22/2026

Issue

Vol. 10 No. 1 (2026)

Section

Original Articles

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Copyright (c) 2026 Bioq Emilia Delvalle, Dra Cecilia González, Biologa Sady Britez, Dra Ivalena de Guillén, QA Laua Aria, Bioq Cynthia Bernal, Bioclin Alejandra Rojas , Dra María Eugenia Acosta

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How to Cite

1.
Delvalle Leguizamón EM, González Vatteone C, Britez S, et al. Seroprevalence and Risk Factors for Toxoplasmosis in Humans and Domestic Dogs from Central Department–Paraguay, 2023–2024. Med Clín Soc. 2026;10(1):e663. doi:10.52379/mcs.v10.663