Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by a protozoan that may affect the lymphatic system, the eye, the unborn child of an infected mother, or a person whose immunity mechanisms have been suppressed. The parasite is distributed worldwide, and the primary reservoir is the cat, though it may also be present in other domestic and wild animals. The illness only affects a minority of those who harbor the organism.
The cyst of the parasite enters the body through undercooked pork, mutton, or beef, or from swallowing contaminated material from the feces of infected cats. It may also be transmitted from and infected mother to her unborn child while the organisms are circulating in her blood. Once swallowed, the cysts change to a more active form and circulate briefly in the blood, soon reaching the body’s organs, where they become encysted and remain latent through the lifetime of most people.
These species of protozoan parasites play an important part in complicating the course of infection in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). In addition to the toxoplasmosis discussed above, a related form is called cryptosporidium. It undergoes its development in the lower bowel, causing severe diarrhea and life-threatening water loss. In healthy persons with a good immune system, the infection is not severe, and within five to seven days there is self-cure. Infection results from the eating or drinking of fecal-contaminated materials. There is no known treatment.
Causes of toxoplasmosis
Contact with cats and eating raw or undercooked meat are primary risk factors. This is a protozoal infection caused by toxoplasma gondii. The dormant (cyst) stage of the parasite is excreted in the feces of cats and can be passed to people by direct contact with cats or by handling litter.
People with compromised immune systems, or pregnant women, can become extremely ill. If a child pets cats frequently and then puts a finger in his own mouth, he or she can lose the sight in one eye.
This is a disease that can affect the person for the remainder of his life.
Natural remedies for toxoplasmosis
Avoid contact with cats. Do not pet cats. Do not clean their litter boxes. If you are pregnant, do not have them in the house. And do not consume undercooked meat. You will have to see physician for correct diagnosis.
References: The Natural Remedies Encyclopedia; Vance H. Ferrell, Harold M. Cherne, M.D.
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