Toxoplasma gondii: The Silent Parasite That Can Infiltrate Your Brain and Body
- Jul 12
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 30
Toxoplasma gondii is a microscopic protozoan parasite responsible for the disease toxoplasmosis. It is one of the most widespread parasites in the world, with an estimated one-third of the global population infected. Often silent, it can lie dormant for years but may become dangerous under certain conditions.
Cause and Transmission
Toxoplasmosis is primarily transmitted through ingestion of oocysts shed in the faeces of infected cats, consumption of undercooked meat containing tissue cysts, and transmission from mother to fetus during pregnancy. It can also be acquired from contaminated water, unwashed vegetables, or handling raw meat.
