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Toxoplasmosis
Toxoplasmosis - Prevention
Prevention from Toxoplasmosis
Since the risks of developing toxoplasmosis are very apparent, it is easy to prevent the infection by practicing some simple precautions and ensuring that you keep your immune system healthy. However, since the infection causes very mild symptoms or no symptoms at all, it is very difficult to know whether you have it.
A healthy immune system may fight the infection off and prevent you from experiencing any specific symptoms of the condition. Therefore, most people need not worry about experiencing any symptoms or any complications arising out of them. Since there are no vaccines against the infection, and since the infection may be devastating if you are pregnant or have a compromised immune system, it is important to ensure that your body remains protected from it. Here are some things you can do to prevent toxoplasmosis:
- If you have a weak immune system, get yourself tested regularly to screen for any specific microorganisms in your blood which could cause infection. In case you test positive for toxoplasmosis, you should meet with your doctor immediately and get a treatment plan.
- Get yourself tested for toxoplasmosis if you are trying to get pregnant. Usually your doctor would ask you to get a complete panel of prenatal tests before you begin trying to conceive. A parasite would usually figure on these tests and treatment can be received in time. This would protect your fetus from the harmful effects of the parasite. If you are already pregnant, it may be prudent to get yourself tested so that proper treatment can be given to you.
- Always wear gloves when you are working in your garden. If you do not wear gloves, always wash your hands and scrub them clean, especially under your nails. This would help you get rid of the toxins or parasites if you have picked up any.
- It is important to take care of your pets, but if you have cats, you should always be a little more careful when cleaning them. Wear gloves while cleaning the kitty litter, or wash your hands well, afterwards.
- Always wash your hands before you eat. It is important to keep your hands clean so that if you have picked up any parasites or infectious microbes, you can get rid of them. Also wash your hands every time you return from the outdoors.
- Avoid consuming raw or undercooked meats. If you are pregnant, it is especially important to stay away from processed meats like salami and pepperoni. Also, avoid consuming deli meats during your pregnancy. Always clean, store and cook your meats well well before consuming them.
- Do not handle raw meats yourself, especially if you are pregnant or have a low immunity. If you have used cutting boards and plates to prepare the raw meat, wash them with warm soapy water before storing them or using them again. Always wash all the knives, spoons and sinks that you may have used for cleaning, cutting and processing the raw meats.