Study the molecular prevalence rate of Toxoplasma gondii in raw milk samples collected from Alborz province by PCR method

Abstract

Introduction: Consumption of good unheated food of animal origin is one of the main causes of Toxoplasmosis. The present study was performed to evaluate the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in raw milk samples collected from Alborz province.
Materials & Methods: 350 samples of raw milk of cows, sheep and goats were collected and transferred to the laboratory. DNA extraction was performed from the samples and Toxoplasma gondii B1 gene was detected using a polymerase chain reaction.
Result: 30 samples out of 350 samples of raw milk evaluated contained Toxoplasma gondii B1 gene (8.57%). The molecular prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in raw milk samples of cattle, sheep and goats was (5.33, 12.00 and 10) percent, respectively.
Conclusion: Raw and unpasteurized sheep milk is considered to be the highest risk source for Toxoplasma gondii transmission. Boiling raw milk and using pasteurized milk is recommended to reduce the risk of Toxoplasma gondii.