Toxoplasmosis

Julie McGivern

Cause• Toxoplasma gondii - a parasitic protozoa

Host• Cats• Broad secondary host range

TransmissionIngested via meat, water and soil

contamination

Life Cycle

                                                                      

                  

Geographical DistributionWorld-wide

SymptomsHumans• Flu-like symptoms, damage to the brain, eyes, or other

organs.

Cats • Asymptomatic or pneumonia, liver damage, and loss of

vision

Wildlife (Sea Otters, Moose, Deer, Bears)• Death

Rodents• Neurological disorder

Sheep and Goats• Abortion and weakness

Treatment

• Usually not required• Medications are

available to treat toxoplasmosis in humans

Prevention & Control

•Avoid undercooked meats •Control insects (such as

houseflies)•If you are owned by a cat

– Keep it inside if possible– Don’t feed it raw meat