| Summary: | Background: <i>Toxoplasma gondii</i> is estimated to infect 33% of blood donors worldwide, and seroprevalence varies widely between countries. We aimed to evaluate, for the first time, the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with <i>T. gondii</i> in blood donors from Western Romania. Methods: Serologic testing to demonstrate the presence of <i>T. gondii</i> antibodies was conducted in 1347 healthy blood donors. Risk factors for <i>T. gondii</i> infection were assessed through an epidemiological questionnaire. Results: The overall prevalence of <i>T. gondii</i> antibodies was 45.9%, with a significant age-associated increase (<i>p</i> < 0.001) from 32.6% in age group 18–25 years to 67.6% in age group 56–63 years. <i>T. gondii</i> seroprevalence decreased with increasing level of education, from 64.3% in individuals who graduated from elementary/middle school to 40.4% in those who graduated from University (<i>p</i> < 0.001). The multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that age, level of education and having pets (cats and/or dogs) were significantly associated with <i>T. gondii</i> infection. Conclusions: This study brings new and valuable data regarding the seroepidemiology of <i>T. gondii</i> infection in Romania. Our findings indicate a high prevalence of <i>T. gondii</i> antibodies in blood donors and may serve as a starting point for further epidemiological studies that should lead to implementation of prevention programs for toxoplasmosis.
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