What is Toxoplasmosis?
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Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. In the U.S. alone, it is found in about 60 million people. Most people do not ever realize they are infected because very few exhibit symptoms. In unborn babies, small children, and those with compromised immune systems though, the infection can have devastating consequences.
You can become infected with toxoplasmosis simply by playing in a sandbox where a feral cat has defecated, eating improperly cooked meat, or ingesting unwashed produce. Commonly in unborn children, the parasite will attack the eyes, and/or the brain. Many fetuses are stillborn or die shortly after birth. The babies who make it often have vision, memory or cognitive issues. Sites with more information: |