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TOXOPLASMA

Toxoplasma is a special type of bug called a protozoa. It is not a virus or bacteria.

It is of most importance to pregnant ladies who have no anti-bodies to Toxoplasma.

If they become infected during term, the immune reaction their body mounts against Toxoplasma can cause birth defects.

Transmission to humans

The majority of people who have had contact with cats will have mounted an immune response to Toxoplasma. Their body "remembers the last time Toxoplasma was in the system, and has built anti-bodies to kill it the next time it arrives.

These people are not at risk of birth deformities.

Cats eating raw meat ingest Toxoplasma cysts which have found their way their along the food chain.

The cysts hatch into immature larvae in the cat and after some time, Toxoplasma eggs appear in their faces.

If humans swallow these eggs, their body mounts an immune reaction to their presence.

Prevention

• Pregnant ladies who are cat owners, should pass the litter tray emptying duties to their partner.
  
• Avoid eating vegetables form the garden where cats go to the toilet as the Toxoplasma eggs can be on the them.
  
• Avoid close contact with the cat and wash hands after handling.
  
• Feed the cat only processed commercial cat foods, tin or dry. as the cooking process used in the factory kills Toxoplasma.
  
• Consider having a blood test to see if you already have anti-bodies to Toxoplasma.

If so, there is a much reduced risk of anything happening.

If you have no anti-bodies, be especially vigilant.