Epidemiological aspects of Visceral Larva Migrans in children living at São Remo Community, São Paulo (SP), Brazil

In preparation for a study of risk factors for Visceral Larva Migrans of children living in São Remo Community, São Paulo (SP), Brazil, fecal samples were collected from 41 dogs younger than one year of age, 338 serum samples from children ages 1-15 years and 37 soil samples, during March-June 2001. Fecal and soil samples were examined for the presence of Toxocara spp. eggs and serum samples were evaluated by ELISA for antibodies to Toxocara canis. Of the fecal, serum and soil samples tested, 39.0%, 26.9% and 29.7%, respectively, were positive, suggesting the possibility of the presence of Visceral Larva Migrans in children.