An epidemiological survey of toxoplasmosis in Mauritania

A sero-epidemiological survey to assess the frequency and the distribution of toxoplasmosis has been conducted in schools of Mauritania. The prevalence, although very low compared to European standards, varies in the different villages, higher values being related to the presence of Arab-Berber populations. The main determinants of this difference are probably the food habits. Prevalence increases and reaches a stable level during adolescence. No difference was shown between sexes. These results are discussed in the context of the geography of toxoplasmosis in West Africa.