Seroprevalence of Toxocariasis Among Children in the Urban and Rural Areas in North Iran

Background: Toxocara spp. can cause different clinical syndromes, including visceral larva migrans and ocular larva migrans. Apparently, children up to the age of 12 are the main population group susceptible to toxocariasis. Consequently, this study aimed to assess the seroprevalence of Toxocara infection and the associated risk factors in children aged 12 years and younger living in Guilan province, northern Iran. Methods: A total of 267 blood samples were collected from children in the Roudbar, Manjil, and Rostamabad districts in Guilan province. Anti-Toxocara IgG antibodies were evaluated using a T. canis IgG ELISA. This study investigated basic demographic data and risk factors, including contact with dogs. Results: Overall, 12 (4.5%) children exhibited IgG antibodies against Toxocara. The overall seroprevalence in females and males was 4.7% (6/ 129) and 4.3% (6/138), respectively. Urban and rural children demonstrated seropositivity rates of 2.9% (5/172) and 7.4% (7/94), respectively. No notable correlation was found between toxocariasis and factors such as gender, age, dog contact, or location. Conclusion: Based on our findings, the rate of Toxocara infection is low among the children of the study area; however, preventive measures, including hygiene education, raising awareness about zoonotic infections, and providing treatment for pregnant dogs, are recommended whenever possible.