Causative Agent: Toxoplasma gondii
Disease: toxoplasmosis
Classification of the causative agent: Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite
History:
Freezing meat at subzero temperatures for up to a few days does help lower the risk of infections.
Virulence factors of the causative agent:
Toxoplasmosis is one of the most successful parasites on earth. It has the ability to start phagocytosis, it can reform the cytoskeleton. It can be found in the intestinal tract, present as a cyst in meat, or even an oocyst in cat feces.
Mode of transmission:
Toxoplasmosis is a parasite that has to be ingested in order to be infected. It is mostly related to cat feces, infected meats, or animal organs. The most common transmission has to do with improper handwashing …show more content…
Though you could develop flu like symptoms. If you have a compromised immune system symptoms may include: headaches, lung problems, confusion, seizures, poor coordination, or blurred vision. Babies can also have their own set of symptoms when infected with the t. gondii
Parasite such as jaundice, severe eye infections, seizures, or an enlarged liver or spleen.
Treatments:
Most healthy people do not need treatment for toxoplasmosis. People who do seek out treatment are usually prescribed folinic acid along with pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine. Pregnant women and infants are harder to treat due to the parasite is never eliminated completely. For persons with AIDS/HIV may be prescribed a combination of medications for the rest of their lives.
Prevention:
Avoid uncooked meat and bring meat to recommended temperatures. Avoid drinking untreated water. Wear gloves while in the garden or sand because cats could have contaminated it with their feces. Feed cats only dry or canned cat food, do not feed uncooked meats. If you are pregnant avoid changing your cats litter