Toxoplasma or gondii is a single-celled microorganism. It usually occurs in cats and can also infect some farm animals. Although Toxoplasma reproduces in animals, it is a type of disease that can infect humans as well.

Toxoplasma is not transmitted from animals to humans by direct contact, but can be transmitted through animal feces, items contaminated with feces, or consuming undercooked food from infected farm animals.

Especially pregnant women should stay away from cat feces until after birth and should not consume undercooked or raw meat. Because it can cause miscarriage risk in pregnant women or serious health problems in babies.

Toxoplasma can also cause retinal infection in the eye, as well as severe damage to the optic nerve or visual center. If left untreated, the patient may lose vision.

What Are the Symptoms of Toxoplasma?

Toxoplasmosis (gondii) disease causes no signs or symptoms in some people and patients are unaware that they are infected. The general symptoms of toxoplasma can be flu-like.

• Headache.
• Body pain.
• Fire.
• Tiredness.
• Swelling of the lymph nodes.

Symptoms may be more severe in people with weakened immune systems.

What are Toxoplasma Prevention Methods?

• Be careful when eating raw or undercooked meat (salami, sausage, etc.).
• If you are dealing with soil in the garden, be sure to wear gloves.
• Pay attention to hand hygiene and frequent hand washing.
• Make sure the cat litter is changed every 24 hours. Use gloves when changing the sand. Be sure to wash your hands afterward.
• Do not use the knife and cutting board you cut raw meat without thoroughly washing it.
• Be sure to wash raw vegetables and fruits very well.
• Always wash your hands after touching raw meat.

Toxoplasma Treatment

Most people with strong immune systems do not need treatment for toxoplasmosis and will resolve on its own. If toxoplasma treatment is needed, a response can be obtained in a short time with the drugs or antibiotics recommended by the physician.

If toxoplasma infection is encountered during pregnancy, antibiotic treatment recommended by the physician is started. With the antibiotic treatment recommended for the expectant mother, the risk of transmission of toxoplasma to the baby can be prevented by about 60 percent.