Immunological status against Toxoplasma gondii in non-cat owners from an endemic region of Mexico.

A cross-sectional study was developed to determine anti-Toxoplasma gondii immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM antibodies from 80 persons aged 18-21 years without a history of previous contact with cats. Individuals who consented to take part in the survey were served with a questionnaire to obtain response on their eating habits. Blood samples were taken and specific IgM and IgG antibodies against T. gondii were measured by indirect enzyme-linked immunoassay. Seropositivity was found in 29 (37%) and 20 (25%) of 80 persons for IgM and IgG, respectively. Of the cases, 14 (18%) of 80 were positive to both IgM and IgG T. gondii antibodies. A significant association of IgM seropositivity was found in people consuming pork (p-value = 0.04) and wildlife meat (odds ratio = 4.5; confidence intervals = 1.47-14.25; p-value = 0.009). The presence of specific IgG and IgM antibodies in the studied population indicate previous contact and/or recent infections with T. gondii despite avoiding direct contact with cats. Ingestion of pork and meat from wild animals appears to be playing a key role in transmitting the parasite.