How Is Toxoplasmosis Contracted?
You typically get toxoplasmosis from ingesting something that has been contaminated with the parasite T. gondii.
T. gondii reproduces in a cat’s intestines and ends up in their poop. The soil, water, plant material, and food we eat can be contaminated by cat poop.
You can accidentally ingest T. gondii after coming in contact with something that is contaminated, like:
- Cleaning a cat’s litter box.
- Drinking water that has not been treated’
- Gardening in soil where cats live.
- Eating undercooked or improperly refrigerated meat’
- Eating unwashed fruits or vegetables.
Toxoplasmosis isn’t contagious, but the parasite that causes it can be passed from a pregnant mother to a fetus. You can also get toxoplasmosis after receiving an infected organ transplant or blood transfusion, though this is rare.