Prevalence of Toxoplasma antibodies in Southern Africa
Jacobs, M.R.; Mason, P.R.
South African Medical Journal 53(16): 619-621
1978
ISSN/ISBN: 0256-9574 PMID: 675435 Document Number: 358246
Serum samples provided by Blood Transfusion services in 4 areas of southern Africa (Natal, Eastern Cape, Western Cape and South West Africa and Botswana) were examined for antibodies to Toxoplasma by the indirect fluorescent antibody test. 20% of 3,379 sera reacted at a titre of 1:16 or higher. The highest prevalence was in Blacks (31%) and Indians (33%) and the lowest in San (Bushmen) (9%) and Whites (12%) of South West Africa and Botswana. The lowest antibody prevalence was in the more arid areas and the highest in the high rainfall region of Natal. The marked difference in prevalence between the San (9%) and Negroid Dama (27%) both inhabiting the Kalahari Desert may be related to the different life styles of these peoples.