SEROPREVALENCE OF Toxocara spp. INFECTION AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG PATIENTS AT GIA LAI GENERAL HOSPITAL, VIETNAM, 2025

Abstract

Toxocariasis is a neglected zoonotic disease caused by the larvae of Toxocara canis, posing a significant public health burden, especially in tropical zones. In Gia Lai province, data on Toxocara infection and associated factors remain limited. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of Toxocara spp. and associated factors among patients presenting to the Gia Lai general hospital in 2025. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 240 patients aged ≥15 years with patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of toxocariasis. Toxocara infection was identified using ELISA for IgG antibodies (New Life Diagnostics). Associated factors were analyzed using Chi-square test to estimate prevalence ratios (PR). Results: The seroprevalence of Toxocara spp. was 44.17%. Significant associated factors included male gender (PR = 1.50; 95%CI: 1.09-2.06; p=0.01), lower education level (p<0.05), owning dogs (PR = 1.46; 95%CI: 1.07-2.01; p = 0.01), and raising free-roaming dogs (PR=1.49; p = 0.007). Clinical symptoms strongly associated with seropositivity included cutaneous larva migrans-like lesions (93.75%), limb numbness (66.13%), and fatigue (63.89%). Conclusions: The seroprevalence of Toxocara spp. infection was high at 44.17%. Interventions should focus on controlling free-roaming dogs, regular deworming for pets, and enhancing public health education, particularly for high-risk groups like farmers and dog owners.