Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Small Ruminants: Risk Factors, Diagnosis, and Prevention Strategies

Abstract

Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that infects humans and animals worldwide with the ability to result in abortion, congenital
malformations, neurological disorders, and immunosuppression in the hosts. The objective of this review is to state the potential
risk factors among small ruminants and humans and recommend practicable control and prevention strategies. The global and
regional distribution and prevalence of the infection vary depending on environmental, climatic, cultural, and behavioral factors.
There are many risk factors for Toxoplasma gondii, whose genotypes also vary geographically and may influence the pathogenicity and
clinical manifestations of the infection. Eating raw or undercooked meat or shellfish, contact with infected cat feces, and vertical
transmission during pregnancy are some of the main transmission routes for Toxoplasma gondii infection. The clinical signs in small
ruminants vary depending on the stage of infection, the strain of the parasite, and the immune status of the host. These signs
and symptoms can be diagnosed by different methods, such as serological and molecular tests, histopathology, and isolation of
the parasite. The treatment options for small ruminants are not very effective, as most drugs can only kill the active forms of the
parasite, not the dormant cysts. The prevention is based on reducing the exposure, keeping cats away from farms or vaccinating
them, and, if available, vaccinating the small ruminants. The epidemiological situation and trends in small ruminants were not well
studied, leading to more significant socio-economic impact and public health implications in developing countries like Ethiopia,
where the prevalence of infection is high and the resources for prevention and treatment are limited. Even though it is very vital to
have standardized rules and regulations established, there is no specific policy or program for toxoplasmosis control and eradication
in Ethiopia. It is indirectly prevented and managed by some of the existing policies and programs for neglected tropical diseases.
Therefore, it is essential to focus on the epidemiology of Toxoplasma gondii infection in small ruminants.