Seroepidemiological investigation and public health implications of Toxoplasma gondii infection in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) in southern Algeria.

Abstract

Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous zoonotic protozoan with significant veterinary and public health implications. Despite the economic and cultural importance of dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) in the Saharan regions of Algeria, little is known about their role in the epidemiology of toxoplasmosis. This study represents a comprehensive seroepidemiological investigation of T. gondii in Algerian dromedaries. A total of 76 adult camels were sampled during January-February 2025 across four Saharan provinces (Biskra, Laghouat, Tindouf, and Oued Souf). Serum samples were analyzed using a commercial ELISA kit to detect specific anti-T. gondii antibodies. Seroprevalence was calculated with 95&#x202f;% confidence intervals (CI), and regional differences were assessed through &#x3c7;&#xb2; test, odds ratios (OR), and Kruskal-Wallis analysis of antibody titers. Overall, the study revealed a high seroprevalence of T. gondii infection (61.8&#x202f;%) in Algerian dromedaries. Significant heterogeneity was observed between regions (p&#x202f;<&#x202f;0.01). The lowest prevalence occurred in Oued Souf (25&#x202f;%; 95&#x202f;% CI: 8.9-53.2), which served as the reference. In contrast, Biskra exhibited an extremely high prevalence (90&#x202f;%; OR = 27.0; 95&#x202f;% CI: 2.4-298.8; p&#x202f;=&#x202f;0.001), followed by Tindouf (69.7&#x202f;%; OR = 7.8; 95&#x202f;% CI: 1.8-34.3; p&#x202f;=&#x202f;0.005) and Laghouat (57.1&#x202f;%; OR = 4.1; 95&#x202f;% CI: 0.9-18.7; p&#x202f;=&#x202f;0.048). Antibody titers correlated with prevalence, with notably elevated values (>180-250) in Biskra and Tindouf, suggesting intense or repeated exposure. The strong regional disparities likely reflect differences in feline density, water source hygiene, herd management, and microclimatic conditions. The exceptionally high prevalence observed, particularly in Biskra, raises concerns for both animal productivity and zoonotic transmission, given the common consumption of raw camel milk and undercooked meat. This pioneering study highlights the epidemiological significance of dromedaries in the transmission of toxoplasmosis in Algeria and emphasizes the need for integrated surveillance, molecular confirmation of infections, and targeted preventive measures to mitigate zoonotic risks in arid ecosystems.