Preliminary evaluation of a qPCR for Toxplasma DNA in meat, an ELISA and agglutination test for anti-Toxoplasma antibodies in serum, and filter strips for field blood collection, using samples collected from northern wildlife between 2006 and 2010

This project was designed to develop diagnostic tools for toxoplasmosis in northern wildlife and to obtain preliminary evaluation data using tissues and sera from a variety of northern species with emphasis on animals traditionally harvested for food by Canadian Inuit and northern Aboriginal groups. The resultant datasets were expected to provide direction for refinement of the test methods, and an indication of the presence and distribution of toxoplasmosis in wildlife in northern Canada. This study was also intended to provide preliminary information to Public Health Agencies in the North for risk analysis, regulatory planning and public education in support of food safety initiatives.