Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma infection in free-range chickens in northeastern Libya

Background: The poultry industry in Libya has recently experienced significant growth, which is critical for improving food security. However, Toxoplasma gondii poses a threat to this industry because it infects warm-blooded animals, including poultry. Chickens, particularly free-range chickens, may serve as an important reservoir for T. gondii, yet there are no reports regarding the prevalence of this disease in free-range chickens in Libya. Understanding the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma in poultry is crucial for mitigating these risks and ensuring the health of the poultry industry. Aim: This study examines the occurrence of T. gondii infection in poultry and evaluates its impact on public health in Libya. Methods: A total of 315 free-range chickens were procured, with blood serum samples collected from the Al-Marj (n = 123), El-Bayda (n = 104), and Derna (n = 88) districts. The sera were analyzed using the indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The chi-square test was used to evaluate a significant correlation between the seroprevalence of T. gondii and area, sex, and age. Results: The overall seroprevalence of T. gondii antibodies was 23.8%. Among the districts, the highest prevalence was recorded in Al-Marj (26.8%), followed by El-Bayda (25%) and Derna (18.2%). Male chickens had a higher prevalence rate (26%; 25/96) than females (22.8%; 50/219), although no statistical difference was found between the genders. Interestingly, older chickens had a significantly higher seroprevalence (39.2%; 31/79) than younger chickens (28.6%; 24/84). Conclusion: In Libya, free-range chickens are a potential source of Toxoplasma infection, with older chickens having a significantly higher seroprevalence than younger chickens. These free-range chickens could pose an infection risk to humans.