1. Toxoplasmosis
Julie McGivern

2. Cause
Toxoplasma gondii - a parasitic protozoa

3. Host
Cats
Broad secondary host range

4. Transmission
Ingested via meat, water and soil contamination

5. Life Cycle
                                                                                        

6. Geographical Distribution
World-wide

7. Symptoms
Humans
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

8. Treatment Usually not required
Medications are available to treat toxoplasmosis in humans

9. 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