Toxoplasmosis: meat, soil and cats

3 min read

Toxoplasmosis is caused by a parasite. If you catch it for the first time during pregnancy it can pass to the baby, so the aim is to avoid a first infection. Most adults who catch it feel fine or slightly unwell, which is why prevention matters.

The main food sources are raw or undercooked meat, especially lamb, pork and game, raw-cured meats such as salami and prosciutto, and fruit and vegetables that still have soil on them. Cook meat all the way through until there is no pink, and wash or peel produce.

Cats can pass the parasite in their droppings, and it lives in soil. Ask someone else to change the litter tray. If you must do it, wear gloves and wash your hands afterwards. Wear gloves for gardening too, and wash your hands before you eat.

In the kitchen, wash your hands, boards and knives after touching raw meat, and do not taste meat while cooking. Freezing meat first can also lower the risk, but thorough cooking is the safest step.