First report on ovine toxoplasmosis in Bosnia and Herzegovina A case study from Srednja-Bosna Canton

Enida Članjak-Kudra; Selmir Velić; Emina Muftić; Abdullah Muftić

doi:10.18485/meattech.2025.66.3.94

Enida Članjak-Kudra University of Sarajevo, Veterinary Faculty, Department of Food Safety and Environmental Protection, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0928-800X
Selmir Velić Administration for Inspection Affairs of Canton Sarajevo, Veterinary Inspection, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina https://orcid.org/0009-0008-7483-5111
Emina Muftić University of Sarajevo, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Bromatology and Nutrition, Sarajevo, Bosna i Hercegovina https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4621-8104
Abdullah Muftić University of Sarajevo, Veterinary Faculty, Department of Pathobiology and Epidemiology, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0404-0002

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18485/meattech.2025.66.3.94

Keywords: sheep, toxoplasmosis, meat safety, seroprevalence, public health

Abstract

Toxoplasma gondii is a major foodborne zoonotic parasite, with sheep meat identified as a high-risk transmission vehicle to humans. This preliminary study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii in sheep intended for human consumption in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Liver samples from 250 sheep were collected at slaughterhouse located in Canton Sarajevo and tested for anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies using an indirect ELISA on meat juice. An exceptionally high seroprevalence of 98.8% was detected, one of the highest rates reported globally. The near-universal exposure suggests widespread environmental contamination and intense infection pressure in the studied region. Given the strong epidemiological link between undercooked mutton and human toxoplasmosis, these findings indicate a significant public health risk. Effective mitigation should focus on consumer education about safe meat preparation and the adoption of integrated One Health strategies to reduce transmission at the animal-human interface.