EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF GESTATIONAL AND CONGENITAL TOXOPLASMOSIS IN THE SOUTHERN MACROREGION OF SANTA CATARINA, BRAZIL, 2019 TO 2024

Abstract

This study analyzed the temporal evolution, spatial distribution, and epidemiological profile of gestational and congenital toxoplasmosis in the Southern Macroregion of Santa Catarina, Brazil, from 2019 to 2024. This ecological, retrospective, and quantitative study used secondary data from official health information systems (SINAN, SINASC, SIM, SISAB, and IBGE). All confirmed cases of gestational and congenital toxoplasmosis reported in the three Health Regions that compose the macroregion were included. The results showed an increasing trend in notifications throughout the historical series, with notable variations among the territories. The Laguna Region recorded the highest number of gestational cases, while the Carbonífera Region presented the highest percentage of vertical transmission and the highest incidence rates of congenital toxoplasmosis. Infections,occurred across all gestational trimesters, with a predominance in the first and second trimesters. No deaths from congenital toxoplasmosis were reported in the macroregion during the study period, although ten deaths were registered in the state. Correlation analysis showed that only the Carbonífera Region presented a statistically significant association between gestational and congenital cases (ρ = 0.829; p = 0.041), suggesting a higher risk of vertical transmission in this territory. The findings highlight the need for regionally tailored strategies, emphasizing the strengthening of primary health care, expansion of serological screening, and active surveillance of vulnerable pregnant women. This study contributes to the planning of more targeted prevention and control actions, aligned with the epidemiological dynamics of the Southern Macroregion of Santa Catarina.