Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii antibodies among waste collectors in Kuwait

TL;DR

This study found that 21% of waste workers in Kuwait had antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii, suggesting widespread exposure to the parasite.

Contribution

The study provides new data on T. gondii seroprevalence in waste workers in Kuwait, highlighting the need for public health interventions.

Findings

21% of waste workers had T. gondii IgG antibodies, indicating prior exposure.

26% of seropositive workers had high IgG avidity, suggesting long-standing infections.

No significant differences in seroprevalence were found between the two governorates.

Abstract

Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease with a global burden, particularly affecting pregnant women, neonates and immunosuppressed individuals. Latent toxoplasmosis has also been associated with neuropsychological disorders in immunocompetent individuals. In Kuwait, the unregulated presence of stray cats in residential areas may contribute to toxoplasmosis spread within the community. The targeted population of this study were waste cleaners, a potentially higher risk group in the community. The aim of the study was to estimate the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii among waste collectors across two governorates of Kuwait – Kuwait City and Jahra.

Blood samples were collected from 201 waste workers from two different cities: 53 and 148 workers from Kuwait City Governorate and Jahra Governorate, respectively. These samples were analysed to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii antibodies (IgM and IgG) and IgG avidity using a chemiluminescence immunoassay.

The findings revealed that a total of 1 % and 21 % of waste workers had T. gondii IgM and IgG antibodies in their sera, respectively. Furthermore, 26 % of seropositive workers exhibited high avidity, indicating that infections were likely not recent. Almost half of seropositive workers (49 %) demonstrated low IgG avidity.

Recent travel history, age, or nationality were not statistically significant factors in determining seropositivity. The results of this study highlight the widespread presence in waste workers, where one in five was seropositive for T. gondii with no significant differences in both cities. Our findings emphasise the need for implementing preventive measures within a One Health framework to control the spread of toxoplasmosis in the environment, the food industry and the community.

Figures