Epidemic toxoplasmosis associated with infected cats

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii.
• Outbreaks can occur through various transmission routes, necessitating source identification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the source and transmission dynamics of a toxoplasmosis outbreak among patrons of a riding stable.
• To identify the etiological agent and risk factors associated with the infection.

Main Methods:

• Serological testing using indirect fluorescent-antibody (IFA) test to detect Toxoplasma gondii antibodies.
• Environmental sampling and isolation of T. gondii from animals (cats, kittens, mice) and patrons.
• Epidemiological analysis to correlate patron activity and proximity to potential sources with infection rates.

Main Results:

• 37 patrons developed clinical toxoplasmosis or showed serologic evidence of acute infection.
• Toxoplasma gondii was identified in cats, kittens, and mice from the stable environment.
• Higher infection incidence was observed in patrons with greater time spent in areas contaminated by cat feces and those attending daily.

Conclusions:

• The outbreak was strongly associated with exposure to Toxoplasma gondii oocysts shed by infected cats at the riding stable.
• Environmental contamination and direct contact with feces were the primary transmission routes.
• Implementing hygiene measures and controlling feline populations in such environments is crucial for prevention.