Toxoplasma gondii in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Infection Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors in Humans and Animals.
Ambachew Motbaynor Wubaye, Birhanu Feleke Shitu, Amare Mebrat Delie et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and random-effects meta-analysis estimated Toxoplasma gondii prevalence and associated risk factors in humans and ruminants in Ethiopia, using studies published between 2012 and 2025. Pooled prevalence was 42.0% (95% CI: 35.0%-49.0%) in ruminants and 61.0% (95% CI: 49.0%-74.0%) in humans. Female and adult animals had higher odds of infection or exposure than males and young animals, respectively. In humans, rural residence and cat ownership were associated with seropositivity. The findings indicate substantial reported prevalence across both populations.
Key findings
- Pooled T. gondii prevalence was 42.0% (95% CI: 35.0%-49.0%) in ruminants and 61.0% (95% CI: 49.0%-74.0%) in humans.
- Female animals had higher odds than males (OR = 1.76; 95% CI: 1.56-2.00), as did adult versus young animals (OR = 2.39; 95% CI: 2.10-2.74).
- Human seropositivity was associated with rural residence (OR = 1.23; 95% CI: 1.07-1.42) and cat ownership (OR = 2.04; 95% CI: 1.79-2.32).
Why it matters
The pooled estimates suggest that T. gondii exposure is common in both human and ruminant populations in Ethiopia. The reported associations identify population and animal characteristics that may help frame surveillance and prevention efforts. Because the review combines evidence from multiple studies, its estimates provide a broader summary than any single study, while remaining dependent on the underlying evidence.
What to keep in mind
The abstract does not report the number or quality of included studies, and the pooled estimates showed heterogeneity assessment was performed but do not provide its results.