Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii Antibodies Among Pregnant Women in Owerri, Imo State

Toxoplasma gondii infection during pregnancy poses significant risks of congenital toxoplasmosis, including miscarriage, stillbirth, and neonatal neurological damage. This seroprevalence study determined the prevalence of T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Owerri, Imo State, Southeast Nigeria. Blood samples from 230 consenting pregnant women were tested using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for anti-Toxoplasma IgG and IgM. A structured questionnaire collected data on cat ownership, consumption of undercooked meat, gardening habits, and previous obstetric history. IgG seroprevalence was 38.7 percent, indicating widespread prior exposure, while IgM seroprevalence was 6.1 percent, suggesting recent or active infection in a subset of women. Consumption of undercooked meat and ownership of domestic cats were significantly associated with IgG seropositivity. Among IgM-positive women, one reported a previous unexplained pregnancy loss. This study highlights the need for routine T. gondii screening in antenatal care packages and targeted counselling on food hygiene and cat contact avoidance for pregnant women in Southeast Nigeria. Keywords: Toxoplasma gondii, seroprevalence, pregnancy, congenital toxoplasmosis, Owerri.