Toxoplasmosis: A Parasitic Disease That Can Affect Both Humans and Animals
Toxoplasma gondii is a parasitic protozoan that can infect most species of warm-blooded animals, including humans. It is the leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the United States, and it can also cause severe birth defects if a woman is infected during pregnancy.
How is Toxoplasmosis Transmitted?
There are three main ways that people can become infected with Toxoplasma gondii:
- By eating raw or undercooked meat, especially pork, lamb, and venison.
- By coming into contact with cat feces that contain the parasite.
- By drinking contaminated water.
Symptoms of Toxoplasmosis
Most people who are infected with Toxoplasma gondii do not have any symptoms. However, some people may experience flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, and muscle aches. In rare cases, toxoplasmosis can cause more serious health problems, such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or eye infections.
Treatment for Toxoplasmosis
There is no cure for toxoplasmosis, but it can be treated with antibiotics. Treatment is usually only necessary for people who have severe symptoms or who are at risk for developing serious complications.
Prevention of Toxoplasmosis
There are a number of things you can do to prevent toxoplasmosis:
- Cook meat thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat or cat feces.
- Avoid drinking contaminated water.
- Pregnant women should take special precautions to avoid becoming infected with Toxoplasma gondii.
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