The role of wildlife in the epidemiology of Toxoplasma gondii: Surveillance and Public Health Implications

Abstract

Introduction: Toxoplasma gondii is a globally distributed zoonotic parasite capable of infecting numerous species of warm-blooded animals. Wildlife plays an important role in its ecology and epidemiology by participating in transmission cycles and reflecting environmental contamination. In Spain, evidence of infection in wildlife has increased, although it remains heterogeneous and poorly integrated into coordinated surveillance systems. This work analyses the role of wildlife in the epidemiology of T. gondii in Spain and opportunities to strengthen its surveillance within a One Health approach.

Method: Published evidence on T. gondii infection and exposure in Spanish wildlife was considered, together with relevant ecological, epidemiological, environmental, and public health information. The National Wildlife Health Surveillance Framework (PNVSFS) was also examined to identify opportunities for integrating parasite surveillance.

Results: Toxoplasma gondii is widely distributed among diverse wildlife species and ecosystems in Spain. Different wildlife groups provide complementary information on environmental and trophic exposure. Wild ungulates, carnivores, birds, and selected aquatic species may therefore serve as complementary sentinel groups. The National Wildlife Health Surveillance Plan provides a potential framework for incorporating T. gondii surveillance

Conclusions: Wildlife surveillance currently represents an underused component of T. gondii epidemiological surveillance in Spain. An integrated, risk-based One Health approach, supported by harmonized protocols, appropriate sentinel species, and coordinated data sharing, could improve understanding of parasite circulation and contribute to the identification and prevention of risks at the wildlife–domestic animal–human interface.