Toxocara Seroprevalence among Clinically Healthy Individuals, Pregnant Women and Psychiatric Patients and Associated Risk Factors in Shandong Province, Eastern China

摘要: Background Toxocarosis is a widespread zoonosis caused by the ascarid nematodes Toxocara canis and cati, which primarily infect dogs cats, respectively. Most human infections with are asymptomatic; however, some infected individuals may develop serious illness even death. Nevertheless, epidemiological knowledge regarding prevalence risks associated infection limited in China. Therefore, we performed cross-sectional pilot study estimated seroprevalence of humans Shandong Province, eastern China for first time, from June 2011 to July 2013, involving clinically healthy individuals, pregnant women psychiatric patients, aiming attract public attention infection. Methodology/Principle Findings Seroprevalence was determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay based on conducted Qingdao Weihai, Factors potentially were identified logistic regression analysis. The overall among population (n = 2866) 12.25%, significantly higher patients (16.40%, 73/445) than that (13.07%, 187/1431) (9.19%, 91/990) revealed. Univariate analyses suggested keeping at home (OR 0.06, 95% CI 0.05–0.08, P<0.001), contact cats 0.42, 0.33–0.53, P<0.001) exposure soil 0.37, 0.28–0.49, risk factors infection. Conclusions/Significance The present revealed, common China, posing significant health concern. Increasing dog populations, movements climate change all will serve increase importance this zoonosis. Further studies under controlled conditions necessary define potential morbidity infection.