Seroprevalence of Toxocara spp. infection and its associated factors among children in Vietnam: A cross-sectional study

Toxocariasis, caused by Toxocara canis and T cati (Toxocara spp.), is one of the 6 most neglected zoonotic diseases worldwide. Children are particularly vulnerable to this infection, which can lead to many negative health effects. This study determines the seroprevalence of Toxocara spp. and identifies associated factors among Vietnamese children. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Le Van Thinh Hospital, Vietnam, from June to October 2024. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and laboratory testing of blood samples using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the association between Toxocara spp. seroprevalence and potential associated factors, with an adjusted odds ratio (aOR) reported, and statistical significance was defined as P < .05. Among 216 children who met all criteria, 13.8% tested positive for Toxocara spp. Multivariate analysis revealed significant associations with pruritus (aOR = 2.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01-6.83; P = .045), limb pain (aOR = 6.77; 95% CI, 1.32-34.65; P = .022), consumption of raw vegetables (aOR = 2.40; 95% CI, 1.15-5.01; P = .019), inadequate handwashing before meals (aOR = 0.47; 95% CI, 0.23-0.85; P = .036), and habit of contact with dogs or cats (aOR = 2.21; 95% CI, 1.17-4.19; P = .014). The seroprevalence rate of Toxocara spp. among Vietnamese children was quite low. Children exhibiting pruritus and limb pain, combined with the consumption of raw vegetables, inadequate handwashing before meals, and a habit of contact with dogs or cats, should undergo enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay testing to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment of toxocariasis.