Abstract

Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease caused by an intracellular protozoan,Toxoplasma gondii and congenital form is one of the most important clinical aspects of this disease. Seroepidemiological studies among women of childbearing age could provide appropriate approaches to design prevention measures to prevent congenital Toxoplasmosis. In this study, 303 blood samples were collected from women of childbearing age who referred to the health center clinics for premarital examinations in Bushehr city. Sera were tested for anti-Toxoplasma IgG and IgM antibodies by using ELISA method. 71 cases (23.4%) were seropositive and 232 (76.6%) serum samples were seronegative for anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibody, 10 samples (3.3%) were seropositive and 293 samples (96.7%) were seronegative for anti-Toxoplasma IgM antibody. According to the results, there was no significant association between seropositivity and age groups, area of residency, history of contact with cat, educational levels and nutritional behaviors. Most women of childbearing age in Bushehr City do not have immunity against Toxoplasmosis. These women are at risk of acquired Toxoplasmosis in their pregnancy period. It is recommended to health managers to design the educational measures to prevent congenital Toxoplasmosis.

Key words: Toxoplasma gondii, premarital women, seroepidemiolog, ELISA.