Scientists are cautioning that a prevalent pet parasite, potentially infecting up to a third of the global population, could render billions of individuals vulnerable to severe health repercussions.
A collaborative study across multiple universities is advocating for global acknowledgement of toxoplasma gondii as a significant threat to millions of people, despite its previous perception as having little impact on health. Known as toxo and carried by cats, this parasite has been labeled the primary intraocular infection worldwide, affecting billions of people, most of whom remain asymptomatic, particularly if they are in good health.
Recent findings by researchers reveal that toxoplasmosis-causing parasites can trigger a damaging eye infection, prompting the call for its recognition as a neglected tropical disease (NTD).
Professor Justine Smith, lead author of the study published in the journal PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases, emphasized that toxoplasmosis is a major cause of vision loss globally, yet it is not adequately addressed in global health priorities.
While most individuals infected with toxoplasmosis do not show symptoms, those with weakened immune systems may experience flu-like symptoms. Symptoms can resemble those of viral infections or glandular fever, such as high fever, body aches, and muscle pain, typically resolving on their own. However, in some instances, the parasite can remain dormant in the body, undetected, and later activate to cause eye infections, regardless of immune status.
Ocular toxoplasmosis manifests as eye pain, redness, reduced vision, and floaters drifting across the visual field. Severe cases can lead to retinal inflammation and permanent blindness.
The study, spearheaded by Associate Professor João Furtado of the University of São Paulo and Professor Smith from Flinders University in Adelaide, Australia, involved experts from various regions. Professor Smith stressed the need for increased attention to the eye-damaging effects of toxoplasmosis, which often go unnoticed in global health agendas.
Professor Furtado, co-author of the study, highlighted that enhanced recognition and focus could empower public health specialists to mitigate the potentially significant impact of toxoplasmosis-related eye infections.
He emphasized the preventable nature of toxoplasmosis, underscoring that its transmission can be controlled through practical measures like improved food safety, clean water, sanitation, and better antenatal care access.
Toxoplasma gondii infections typically occur through the consumption of undercooked meat, contaminated water or produce, and contact with cat feces. Cats themselves usually contract the parasite by ingesting contaminated substances.
