Elevated anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibody levels among slaughterhouse workers in Paraíba, Brazil: Implications for occupational health

The objective was to assess the prevalence of anti-T. gondii antibodies in slaughterhouse workers in the state of Paraíba and the possible factors associated with infection by this protozoan. Blood samples were collected from 170 slaughterhouse workers from six municipalities in the state, and an epidemiological questionnaire was applied to the study participants during sample collection. The blood samples were identified, refrigerated, and sent for serological analysis using the Immunofluorescent Antibody Test (IFAT). The prevalence of anti-T. gondii IgG among workers was 77.6% (132/170; 95% CI: ±0.752), with titers ranging from 1:16 to 1:8192. Factors associated and possible consequences with infection included low education level: illiterate (PR 1.512; 95% CI 1.083–2.111); elementary education (PR 1.46; 95% CI 1.092–1.953); and difficulties in conceiving children (PR 1.23, 95% CI 1.061–1.426). We concluded that there is a high prevalence of T. gondii among slaughterhouse workers in Paraíba, and the work environment may pose a higher risk as they are directly exposed to contaminated tissues. The association between low education levels and T. gondii seropositivity reinforces the need for preventive measures and health education in the workplace.