Toxoplasmosis is generally a mild flu-like illness caused by a parasite. Healthy adults may exhibit no symptoms,Mayo Clinic: Toxoplasmosis but the disease may cause serious illness or death in people with compromised immune systems.Kids Health: Toxoplasmosis The disease can also be passed from pregnant mother to fetus,NHS Direct: Pregnancy and Toxoplasmosis potentially causing miscarriage, blindness or brain damage.
Infection
Humans can get toxoplasmosis by coming in contact with an infected animal's feces, eating raw meat, drinking contaminated water or consuming unpasteurized milk. The parasite is primarily found in cats,Kids Health: Toxoplasmosis but most animals can be infected.
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have toxoplasmosis, please consult your doctor.
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References
Fast Facts
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Caused by
Toxoplasma gondii parasite
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Fact:
Third leading cause of death from food borne illness in the United StatesCDC: Toxoplasmosis
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Fact:
60 million U.S. carriersCDC: Toxoplasmosis
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Fact:
50% chance of infected woman passing it to fetusMayo Clinic: Toxoplasmosis
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Incubation
