Seroprevalence of toxocariasis in schoolchildren in Trinidad.

摘要: The seroprevalence of toxocariasis was investigated in 1997/98 1009 schoolchildren (aged 5-12 years) throughout Trinidad. Infection, as measured by titre, found to be high compared values obtained from children other countries. Using an excretory-secretory antigen and performing ELISA test, it that 62.3% had IgG antibody titre > or = 1:100, indicating exposure the parasite, while 27.2% a 1:800, current recent infection. Relationships were explored between host factors including age, sex, school location, risk geophagia, thumb-sucking, presence gastrointestinal-tract parasitism pet ownership. There no significant relationship age infection (P 0.746). Boys significantly more commonly infected than girls attendees rural schools versus urban < 0.001). percentage seropositivity among varied widely school. Pet ownership absence pipe-borne water household associated with positive serology 0.05). Clinical symptoms mostly eczema, seizures chronic cough. Recommendations derived this study include health education order increase public awareness on transmission disease, de-worming all dogs cats periodically curbing stray cats. Environmental sanitation measures should keeping away contaminated areas practising proper hygiene after play.