Seroprevalence of Toxocariasis in schoolchildren in Bushehr, Iran

Background: Toxocariasis is an infection caused by larvae of a group of animal nematodes named Toxocara in human tissues. The disease often affects children under the age of 10 years. In this research, we decided to determine the prevalence of infection in schoolchildren of Bushehr city as a first study in the region. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the samples were selected randomly among Bushehr primary school students between September 2011 and June 2012. ELISA method was used to measure anti-Toxocara canis IgG antibodies. Data were collected by questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS 18.0 software and Chi square test. Results: Of the 400 students studied, 48 (12%) were positive for anti-Toxocara IgG antibodies. Results showed that there is no a statistically significant relationship between infection and some of the analyzed variables such as sex, abdominal pain, anorexia, chronic cough, diffuse pain, itching and skin sensitivity. However, with the habit of playing with soil, this relationship was significant. Conclusion: Considering the importance of the disease in children and influence of harmful effects on their health, it is suggested that the methods for diagnosis be trained for clinicians in the area and periodically tests as well as teaching the prevention and control strategies should be considered to the educational staff and parents