Seroprevalence of Toxoplasmosis in Sheep and Goats in Kwara State, North Central Nigeria

This study determines the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in sheep and goats in Kwara State, located in Nigeria's North Central geopolitical zone. Toxoplasmosis is a globally significant zoonotic protozoan infection transmitted through ingestion of oocysts from cat faeces, consumption of undercooked meat from infected animals, or transplacental transmission. In Nigeria, the role of small ruminants as a source of human T. gondii infection through meat consumption has received limited research attention. Using a cross-sectional design, serum samples were collected from 200 sheep and 180 goats from four local government areas in Kwara State. Toxoplasma gondii antibodies were detected using a modified agglutination test (MAT) at a cut-off titre of 1:25. Epidemiological data including species, sex, age, herd management, and proximity to cats were recorded for each animal. Findings revealed seroprevalence of 31.5 percent in sheep and 24.4 percent in goats. Older animals, animals managed extensively, and those raised in households with cats showed significantly higher seroprevalence. Female animals of both species had higher odds of seropositivity than males. The study represents the first systematic serological survey of toxoplasmosis in small ruminants in Kwara State and highlights the potential contribution of mutton and chevon consumption to human T. gondii exposure. Recommendations include adequate cooking of small ruminant meat and cat population management near livestock holdings. Keywords: toxoplasmosis, sheep, goats, Kwara State, zoonosis.