Authors: Elmahallawy Ehab Kotb, Hassan Marwa F, Cano-Terriza David, Albalawi Nada Oudah, Fajardo Tomás, Gouda Asmaa Aboelabbas, Atiba Ayman, Hendawy Ahmed, Villena Isabelle, Barakat Ashraf Mohamed, Alzaylaee Hind, Almería Sonia, García-Bocanegra Ignacio
Journal: Frontiers in veterinary science
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Toxoplasmosis Seroprevalence in Egyptian Equids Toxoplasma gondii exposure remains poorly characterised in equine populations across the Middle East and North Africa, despite the parasite's significant zoonotic potential and global distribution. Researchers screened 360 serum samples from Northern Egyptian equines (157 horses and 203 donkeys) using the Modified Agglutination Test to determine seroprevalence and evaluate risk factors including species, breed, sex, age, and geographic location. Overall seroprevalence was notably high at 41.11%, with donkeys showing significantly greater exposure (51.23%) compared to horses (28.03%), representing nearly a threefold increased odds ratio of seropositivity. These findings represent one of the largest serological surveys of T. gondii in Egyptian equids and the first systematic examination of infection risk factors in this population, revealing that donkeys warrant particular attention in parasite surveillance programmes. For equine practitioners across the region, these results underscore the necessity for periodic monitoring protocols and parasite management strategies, particularly given the zoonotic implications for handlers, farriers, and veterinary staff working with donkey populations where exposure risk is demonstrably elevated.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Donkeys in Northern Egypt carry substantially higher exposure to T. gondii than horses; donkey owners should be aware of the zoonotic risk and implement appropriate biosecurity and hygiene measures
- •High overall seroprevalence (>40%) indicates T. gondii is endemic in the region; periodic surveillance and monitoring programs are warranted to track trends and inform management decisions
- •Risk factors beyond species (breed, age, location, sex) influence exposure; targeted management strategies should account for these variables rather than applying one-size-fits-all approaches
Key Findings
- •Overall seroprevalence of T. gondii in Egyptian equines was 41.11% (95% CI: 36.03-46.19)
- •Donkeys had significantly higher seroprevalence (51.23%) compared to horses (28.03%; p<0.001; OR=2.99)
- •This represents one of the largest serosurveys of T. gondii in equids in Egypt with the largest donkey sample size to date
- •Species, breed, sex, age, and location were examined as potential risk factors for parasite exposure