Serological Prevalence of Toxoplasmosis in Pregnant Women in Brazilian Federal District and its Possible Association with Sanitation Conditions

Abstract

Introduction: Toxoplasma infects up to a third of the world's population and the infection can be dangerous to the fetus during pregnancy. In the congenital form, the sequelae in the fetus can be severe and irreversible. Some babies infected with the parasite can be born without complications but present neurological changes during the first year of life, in childhood or even in adulthood. On the other hand, basic sanitation has been considered an important environmental determinant of health. Some studies observed that aspects associated with urban cleaning services and personal hygiene are important factors in the dissemination of toxoplasmosis.