Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. The parasite reproduces in the intestinal tracts of cats. Humans become infected by direct or indirect contact with cat poop (feces) or by eating undercooked meat. Most people don’t have symptoms when they get infected. But as your immune system attacks the parasite, it creates cysts in your body.
Causes of Toxoplasmosis
Contact with cat: For cat owners, this cause might be very common with them. You can get Toxoplasmosis after getting in contact with cat poop especially when it’s contaminated. It could be the cat’s litter box or where the cat lives.
Contaminated Food: You can accidentally ingest T. gondii after coming in contact with something that’s contaminated, such as eating uncooked or undercooked foods, drinking water that hasn’t been boiled or treated, Eating unwashed fruits or vegetables.
From Mother to Child: Toxoplasmosis isn’t contagious, but a pregnant person can pass the parasite that causes it to a fetus. Blood Transfusion/ Weak immune system You can also get toxoplasmosis after receiving an infected organ transplant or blood transfusion, though this is rare. Also, Those with weakened immune systems are at risk for life-threatening complications.
All these are gotten from an article published by Cleveland Clinic on the 2nd of August, 2022 FYI: To diagnose toxoplasmosis, your healthcare provider will perform a physical exam and ask you about your symptoms. They may order blood tests, biopsies, imaging (CT scan or MRI), a lumbar puncture or, if you’re pregnant, amniocentesis or ultrasound.
