Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that is found in the feces of infected cats. Cats shed the cyst form which can persist in the environment for long periods of time. Other mammals including humans can become exposed to the parasite through contact with cat feces or through contact with soil, water or food contaminated with cat feces. However, most people are exposed to the parasite through consumption of under cooked meat from a food animal that was infected with the parasite or through such activities as gardening.

Most people exposed to Toxoplasma have no clinical disease or may have a mild form of the disease that is not recognized as toxoplasmosis. However, a cystic form of the parasite can persist in muscle or brain tissue for life and if the immune system becomes suppressed, the parasite can become reactivated and cause more severe symptoms.

If the mother becomes infected during pregnancy it can cause birth defects or abortion of the fetus. Congenital toxoplasmosis can manifest as nervous system defects or blindness or other eye problems. Disease or death of the fetus usually only occurs if the mother is actively infected during pregnancy. If the mother has been exposed to toxoplasmosis prior to becoming pregnant, and she develops antibodies (a titer), she will be protected from active infection during pregnancy. If she does not have antibodies (negative titer), she needs to be especially careful not to become exposed during pregnancy.

The ROHP offers toxoplasmosis testing to women who work with cats and who may become pregnant. Boynton health service personnel will provide counseling as to what the testing indicates and additional recommendations for prevention.

Prevention

• Wash hands well after handling cats, kittens or their feces.
• Avoid emptying cat litter boxes during pregnancy or wear gloves or wash hands well.
• Fully cook all meat.
• Wear gloves when gardening and wash hands well.

For more information, visit www.health.state.mn.us/divs/idepc/diseases/toxoplasmosis/index.html