Toxoplasmosis Fact Sheet

What is toxoplasmosis?

Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by a tiny parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. It can spread to humans through contact with cat feces, eating undercooked or contaminated meat, or drinking contaminated water. Most people with toxoplasmosis do not have symptoms because their immune system keeps the parasite in check. However, it can cause flu-like symptoms like fever, swollen lymph nodes, or muscle aches in some cases.

For pregnant women or people with weak immune symptoms, the infection can be more serious, possibly harming the baby or leading to severe complications, such as inflammation of the brain and eyes.

Who gets toxoplasmosis?

Anyone can get toxoplasmosis, but certain groups are more at risk. People most likely to be affected are:

1. People who eat undercooked or contaminated game meat: The parasite can live in game meat, especially venison (deer meat) and bear meat.
2. Those exposed to cat feces: The parasite can spread through cat litter or soil where infected cats have discharged feces.

Healthy people with strong immune systems often do not get sick or only have mild, flu-like symptoms.

Who is at higher risk for complications if they get toxoplasmosis?

1. Pregnant women: If they get infected for the first time during or shortly before pregnancy, the parasite can harm the baby.
2. People with weakened immune systems: This includes those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or organ transplants, as their bodies cannot fight off the parasite well.

How do people get toxoplasmosis?

People can become infected with toxoplasmosis in the following ways:

1. Eating Contaminated Food or Drinking Contaminated Water
   • Eating undercooked or raw game meat, especially venison (deer meat) or bear meat.
   • Drinking water contaminated with Toxoplasma gondii.
2. Contact with Cat Feces
   • Handling litter boxes, soil, and sand with infected cat feces without proper hygiene.
3. Mother-to-Child Transmission
   • Pregnant women who become infected can pass the infection to their unborn child.
4. Organ Transplants or Blood Transfusions
   • In rare cases, the parasite can be spread through an organ transplant or blood transfer from an infected donor.

What are the symptoms of toxoplasmosis and when do they appear?

Most people with toxoplasmosis do not have any symptoms because their immune system keeps the parasite under control. However, if symptoms do appear, they usually show up 1 to 3 weeks after being exposed and can vary depending on your health.

1. In Healthy People:
   • Mild flu-like symptoms, such as tiredness, muscle aches, fever, or swollen lymph nodes (especially in the neck).
   • These symptoms often go away on their own and may not even be noticed.
2. In People with Weakened Immune Systems (for example, those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy):
   • More severe symptoms, such as headaches, confusion, seizures, or difficulty breathing.
   • These happen because the parasite can cause serious infections in the brain, eyes, lungs, or other organs.
3. In Pregnant Women and Babies:
   • If a pregnant woman gets toxoplasmosis for the first time, she may not feel sick, but the parasite can infect the baby.
   • Babies born with toxoplasmosis might have no symptoms at birth, but over time, they could develop vision problems, hearing loss, or developmental delays.

How is toxoplasmosis diagnosed?

Healthcare providers diagnose toxoplasmosis with a blood test. The test looks for special proteins, called antibodies, that your body makes when it fights the Toxoplasma gondii parasite.

1. What the blood test shows:
   • If the test finds antibodies, it means you have been exposed to the parasite.
   • Depending on the type of antibodies found, the provider can tell if the infection is recent or happened in the past.
2. Other tests:
   • If you are pregnant or have a weakened immune system, the provider may do more tests to check for complications.
   • For unborn babies, the provider can test the amniotic fluid (the liquid around the baby) or use an ultrasound to look for signs of infection.
   • In severe cases, they might test spinal fluid or tissue samples if the parasite is affecting the brain or other organs.

What is the treatment for toxoplasmosis?

Treatment for toxoplasmosis depends on your health, symptoms, and whether you are pregnant. Many healthy people do not need treatment because their immune system can control the infection. However, in certain cases, you may need medication especially if you have severe symptoms or a weak immune system. Treatment works best when started early, so it is important to see a provider if you are at risk or have symptoms.

How can you keep from getting toxoplasmosis?

You can lower your chances of getting toxoplasmosis by taking simple steps:

1. Be Careful with Food:
   • Freeze game meat for at least 3 days at sub-zero temperatures.
   • Cook game meat to an internal temperature of 165°F to kill the parasite. Use a food thermometer to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
   • Clean all kitchen utensils, cutting boards, and surfaces that come into contact with raw meat using soap and water.
   • Wash fruits and vegetables well before eating, especially if you eat them raw.
   • Avoid drinking untreated water, especially if you are travelling to places where you do not know for sure if the water is safe to drink.
   • Do not drink unpasteurized milk.
2. Handle Cat Litter Safely:
   • If you have a cat, clean the litter box daily. The parasite takes at least 24 hours to become infectious.
   • Ask someone else to clean the litter box if you are pregnant or have a weak immune system.
   • Wash your hands well after touching cat litter or soil.
3. Practice Good Hygiene:
   • Wash your hands often, especially after gardening, handling raw game meat, or cleaning up after pets.
   • Keep children's sandboxes covered when not in use to keep cats out.
4. Protect Yourself During Pregnancy:
   • Pregnant women should avoid handling cat litter and take extra care when preparing food.
   • Stay away from stray or outdoor cats to avoid accidental exposure.

How do I know if my cat has toxoplasmosis?

Cats with toxoplasmosis may not always show obvious symptoms, but when they do, signs can include:

• Lethargy (low energy)
• Loss of appetite
• Fever
• Difficulty breathing
• Neurological symptoms like seizures, tremors, or trouble walking
• Eye issues like swelling, squinting, or discharge

Because these signs can be similar to other illnesses, consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.