Seroepidemiology of selected zoonotic infections in Basra region of Iraq

ABSTRACT

A community-based seroepidemiological study was made of 4 common zoonotic infections [brucellosis, hydatidosis, toxoplasmosis and visceral leishmaniasis] in 3 areas [rural, urban and suburban semirural] in Basra governorate, southern Iraq. The prevalence of brucellosis was higher in the suburban semirural area [29.3%] than the rural and urban areas. The prevalence of hydatidosis [19.0%-35.5%] and toxoplasmosis [41.1%-52.1%] were relatively high in all 3 areas. With respect to visceral leishmaniasis, low rates of infection were reported [0.2%-1.9%]. The study shows in general that the suburban semirural area is at highest risk of zoonotic infections compared with other areas. The results could form a rational basis for the planning of an integrated comprehensive approach for control of zoonotic infections in the areas surveyed