Lakhasly

o Conduct a larger-scale, population-based seroepidemiological study with a probability sample of sufficient size to support multivariate logistic regression analysis, enabling robust identification of independent risk factors for T. gondii seropositivity in Kirkuk governorate.

• Conduct a larger-scale, population-based seroepidemiological study with a probability sample of sufficient size to support multivariate logistic regression analysis, enabling robust identification of independent risk factors for T. gondii seropositivity in Kirkuk governorate.
• Extend the study to include a rural sampling frame to characterize the full geographic distribution of toxoplasmosis across the governorate and formally quantify the urban-rural difference in seroprevalence that was suggested by the near-significant trend observed in this study.
• Incorporate IgG avidity testing alongside standard IgG and IgM ELISA to improve differentiation between recently acquired primary infection and long-standing chronic infection, thereby providing more precise estimates of the incidence of acute toxoplasmosis in women of childbearing age.
• Include molecular characterization and genotyping of T. gondii isolates from seropositive participants and local cat and livestock populations to identify circulating strains and elucidate the primary transmission pathways operating in the Kirkuk environment.