Toxoplasmosis is an infection that can threaten the health of an unborn child. It is caused by a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. The parasite multiplies in the intestine of cats and is shed in cat feces, mainly into litter boxes and garden soil. You can get the parasite by handling cat litter or soil where there are cat feces. You can also get the parasite from eating undercooked meat (such as rare beef) from animals infected with the parasite.

Healthy adults usually do not suffer ill effects from toxoplasmosis and many times do not have enough symptoms to suggest infection. Symptoms are rare, but can resemble the flu. However, if you become infected while pregnant, your unborn child may also become infected. Infected babies may not develop any disease, or they may become very ill, with serious damage to the brain and eyes.

Blood testing for detecting past or recent exposure to this parasite is available, but is not routinely done.

Here are some tips to help you avoid exposure to toxoplasmosis during your pregnancy:

·      Have another family member change the cat litter box and then disinfect it with boiling water for 5 minutes.

·      If you must handle the chore of changing the litter box, wear rubber loves to avoid contact with the litter and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.

·      Use work gloves when gardening and wash your hands afterwards.

·      Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat (or poultry) and unwashed fruits and vegetables.

·      Wash your hands thoroughly before you eat and after handling raw meat, soil, sand or cats.

·      Avoid rubbing your eyes or face when preparing food, and wipe the counter clean afterwards.

·      Avoid eating raw eggs and drinking unpasteurized milk.

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