The prevalence and public health significance of Toxoplasma gondii in indigenous meat animals in the Niger Delta.

Abstract

The prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in indigenous meat animals in the Niger Delta area of Nigeria was measured by serological examination of antibody using the Sabin-Feldman dye-test. Of 300 each of cattle, sheep, goats and pigs examined, 32.8%, 75.2%, 81.6% and 69.2% respectively, possessed significant antibody titres. These results indicate that there exists within meat animals in this area, a considerable reservoir of Toxoplasma which has the potential for transmission as zoonosis to man.