Seroprevalence and Risk Analysis of <i>Toxoplasma Gondii</i> in Wild Birds of District Lahore Punjab, Pakistan

INTRODUCTION: Toxoplasmosis is the most prevalent zoonotic disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii, affecting warm-blooded species such as birds, humans, and marine mammals. Wild birds contribute significantly to the spread of T. gondii through shared contact with other living organisms. Moreover, the consumption of wild bird meat is a potential source of infections in humans. This study aims to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii antibodies in wild birds in the Lahore district of Punjab, Pakistan. METHODS: One hundred and seventy-six wild birds of 35 species were captured for blood collection from Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. Data related to demography and epidemiology were collected on field proforma. Serum samples were tested for T. gondii antibodies using the latex agglutination test (LAT). RESULTS: A total of 18 birds, representing 10.2% of the sample, tested positive for T. gondii antibodies. Of the bird species sampled, 40% (n = 14) of bird species were found seropositive for T. gondii. Red-wattled Lapwing and Indian silver bill had the highest prevalences (50%). A substantial difference (p ≤ 0.05) in antibodies of T. gondii prevalence was found between adults (28.6%) and juveniles (7.7%). birds, with no differences noted in other parameters based on chi-square analysis. However, species, age, and locality were identified as potential risk variables for seropositivity of T. gondii based on binary logistic regression. DISCUSSION: This study presents evidence of widespread of T. gondii antibodies in wild birds captured in Lahore district. The findings will aid in developing effective strategies to control this disease in the study area. IMPACTS: This study found that over 10% of wild birds in Lahore, Pakistan, carry antibodies for Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that can cause serious illness in humans and animals. Birds like lapwings and silver bills showed especially high antibody rates. Improved monitoring is needed to better understand risk dynamics in Pakistan.