Sero-epidemiological survey of Toxoplasma gondii in water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) and domestic pig (Sus scrofa domesticus) across upper and lower Egypt

Abstract

Toxoplasma gondii ( T. gondii ) is a globally prevalent protozoan parasite affecting warm-blooded species, including humans. In Egypt, serological surveys have been conducted in several livestock; however, studies on species such as buffalo and pigs remain scarce. This study aimed to provide updated insights into the seroprevalence of T. gondii in a cohort of 548 domestic animals, comprising 288 water buffaloes ( Bubalus bubalis ), sampled from both Upper and Lower Egypt, and 260 domestic pigs ( Sus scrofa domesticus ) from Lower Egypt between January and December 2023. Serological screening for anti- T. gondii antibodies was performed using the Modified Agglutination Test (MAT). Furthermore, the investigation evaluated the influence of various individual factors, including sex, age, season, and geographic origin, on the likelihood of exposure to the parasite in these understudied host species. Likewise, this work comprehensively reviews all previous research on the serosurveys of T. gondii in water buffalo and domestic pigs across Upper and Lower Egypt, with findings systematically tabulated to provide an updated and consolidated overview of the available evidence about this topic. The overall seroprevalence of T. gondii in buffalo was 42.01% (121/288; 95% Confidence Interval (95%CI): 36.31- 47.71). The Generalized Estimating Equation model identified geographic location as a significant risk factor for T. gondii exposure in buffalo, where buffalo from Lower Egypt showing 3.69-fold higher odds of seropositivity compared to those from Upper Egypt, highlighting increased circulation of the parasite in northern areas. Seroprevalence was significantly higher in pigs (68.46%; 178/260; 95%CI: 62.81–74.11) than in buffalo. However, no significant associations were found between seropositivity and the evaluated epidemiological variables in this species. These findings demonstrate high T. gondii exposure in Egyptian buffalo and pigs, indicating continued transmission and zoonotic danger. Biosecurity measures must be strengthened, cat access reduced, sanitation enhanced, herd screening performed on a regular basis, and farmers educated. One Health surveillance and additional field research should lead effective control and lessen the public health effects. reveal substantial exposure to T. gondii in both buffalo and pigs in Egypt and highlight the need for targeted control strategies, including improved husbandry and biosecurity practices, routine animal screening, and farmer education, to reduce transmission risk in livestock and protect public health.