Toxoplasmosis and Pregnancy

Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis is an infection transmitted by a parasite (Toxoplasma gondii), which is found in the intestines of the cat or other animal species, but also in the earth. We can contract toxoplasmosis by changing the cat litter, gardening and raising her hands to their mouths, or by eating undercooked contaminated meat or vegetables in stained and unwashed. Toxoplasmosis is a mild disease characterized by the absence of symptoms or signs of simple flu. After initial infection, it is immune to life thanks to the presence of specific antibodies in the blood.

Toxoplasmosis and pregnancy

In the mother, toxoplasmosis often goes unnoticed or is generally benign, but can infect the fetus: early pregnancy, the risk of transmission is rare but the consequences can be brain damage, severe eye damage, miscarriage etc and in mid and late pregnancy, the risk of transmission is higher but the consequences are much less serious for the baby because her immune system is more efficient.

Prevention of toxoplasmosis

We need to respect the rules of simple hygiene: wash raw vegetables and abstain from eating at restaurants or buffets always eat cooked meat, avoid changing the litter box even though, unlike belief, the animal is actually less contaminating the food, do not handle contaminated land, unless you use gloves. – Wash your hands regularly.

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