Seroprevalence and distribution of bovine and porcine cysticercosis in rural areas of Mpumalanga province, South Africa

Cysticercosis is a neglected zoonotic disease caused by the larval stages of Taenia asiatica, T. saginata and T. solium. Its prevalence varies across regions, with limited data available in South Africa, particularly in Mpumalanga province. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence and distribution of bovine and porcine cysticercosis in rural communities of Mpumalanga province, South Africa. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from 2021 to 2022 in Ehlanzeni and Nkangala districts. Blood samples were collected from 384 cattle and 336 pigs and analysed using the Apdia® cysticercosis AgELISA kit. Logistic regression was used to estimate odds of infection, with statistical significance set at p 0.05. Overall seroprevalence of bovine cysticercosis was 35.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 30.5–40.2), while porcine cysticercosis was 4.8% (95% CI: 2.8–7.6). Seroprevalence varied across districts and municipalities in Mpumalanga province, with evidence of spatial heterogeneity in both cattle and pigs. The higher prevalence in cattle is likely because of free-range grazing practices, increasing exposure to Taenia-contaminated environments. Pigs, mostly penned, had lower infection rates. Contribution: This study provides the first baseline data on bovine and porcine cysticercosis in Mpumalanga province, highlighting the need for improved livestock management, sanitation, farmer education and targeted surveillance to reduce transmission.