What is Toxoplasmosis?

- Toxoplasmosis (toxo) is an infection caused by a single-celled parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. The infection is most commonly acquired from contact with cats and their feces or with raw or undercooked meat.

The babies of women who were exposed to toxo within a few months of becoming pregnant or during pregnancy are at an increased risk for developing a severe case of toxo.

Infants are prone to toxoplasmosis since the immune system in infant is not fully matured until after birth.

If the immune system of a mother is normal then symptoms of Toxoplasmosis may not show. However, the baby inside may acquire the disease.

Most infants have no symptoms at birth, but a small percentage may be born with eye or brain damage. Unfortunately, the signs and symptoms of the disease often appear a few months after birth.

All pregnant clients should be advised to do the following to prevent the development of toxoplasmosis:

• Clients should be instructed to cook meats thoroughly, particularly pork, beef, and lamb;
  
• avoid touching mucous membranes of the mouth or eyes while handling raw meat;
  
• thoroughly wash all kitchen surfaces that come in contact with uncooked meat;
  
• wash the hands thoroughly after handling raw meat; avoid uncooked eggs and unpasteurized milk;
  
• wash fruits and vegetables before consumption;
  
• and avoid contact with materials that possibly are contaminated with cat feces, such as cat litter boxes, sand boxes, or garden soil.