Abstract

Background: Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that can infect a wide range of hosts, including humans. Infection with T. gondii is potentially life threatening in immunocompromised individuals. Moreover, the infection can be detrimental during pregnancy, often leading to abortion of the fetus. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the seroepidemiology of T. gondii infection among Qom's pregnant women in 20l0. Materials and methods: In this descriptive, cross-sectional study, 200 serum samples were selected randomly and examined for toxoplasmosis by ELISA and IFA methods.The relationship between seropositivity for toxoplasmosis on the one hand, and some important factors on the other hand, were evaluated. Results: Total prevalence of Anti-Toxoplasma was 45.3. According to the data reported by patients, toxoplasmosis had direct relationship with residential areas, consumption of semi-cooked meat, consumption of unwashed raw vegetables, and being in contact with cats. There is a statistically significant relationship between age and occurrence of the infection with regard to IgG seropositivity. However, such relationship could not be found for IgM. The highest infection rate was observed in the age range of 2l to 25. Discussion: Education about the routes of the disease transmission and performing toxoplasma test before pregnancy can be effective reducing the prevalence rate.