Serological Assessment of Taenia solium Cysticercosis Exposure in Pig Farming Population of Punjab
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Background
Taenia solium is a major neglected zoonotic parasite endemic to India, responsible for human cysticercosis and neurocysticercosis, particularly in pig-rearing communities. Despite increasing reports of clinical cases, limited data are available on asymptomatic exposure to T. solium in northern India. This study aimed to estimate the seroprevalence of T. solium cysticercosis and assess associated risk factors among pig-farming populations in Punjab.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted between 2019 and 2021 in four districts of Punjab. A total of 387 individuals from pig-rearing communities were enrolled. Structured questionnaires were administered to collect demographic, occupational, and hygiene-related data. Blood samples were tested for T. solium IgG antibodies using a commercial ELISA kit. Fecal samples (n = 50) were also examined via sedimentation and flotation for Taenia eggs. Univariate and chi-square analyses were conducted to identify significant risk factors (p < 0.05).
Results
The overall seroprevalence of T. solium cysticercosis was 8.01% (31/387). The highest seropositivity was observed in Amritsar (16.9%), followed by Jalandhar (10.47%) and Ludhiana (4.58%). Pig farmers had significantly higher odds of seropositivity (11.61%) compared to non-pig farmers (4.23%) (OR = 2.97, 95% CI: 1.30 to 6.83). Seropositivity was confined to individuals with education up to 10th standard. No T. solium eggs were detected in any fecal sample. Significant associations were observed for location, occupation, and raw vegetable consumption. Participants who reported biannual deworming (n = 22) were all seronegative.
Conclusions
This study highlights ongoing exposure to T. solium in pig-farming communities of Punjab, with occupational and hygiene-related factors playing a critical role. Tailored interventions including regular deworming, health education, and sanitation improvements targeting high-risk groups particularly pig farmers and adults over 30 years are warranted to mitigate the transmission and burden of cysticercosis.
