"Cat lady disease" is a common, though unofficial, term often used to refer to toxoplasmosis, an infection caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii.
Here's a breakdown:
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What causes it? Toxoplasmosis is usually contracted by:
- Eating undercooked meat containing the parasite.
- Coming into contact with cat feces that contain the parasite. Cats become infected by eating infected prey (like rodents or birds).
- Mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy.
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Symptoms: Many people who are infected with Toxoplasma gondii don't experience any symptoms. However, some may experience flu-like symptoms, including:
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
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Risks: While generally mild in healthy individuals, toxoplasmosis can be more serious for:
- Pregnant women: The parasite can be passed to the unborn child, potentially causing birth defects or miscarriage.
- People with weakened immune systems: Those with HIV/AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, or who have had organ transplants are at higher risk for severe complications.
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Prevention: You can reduce your risk of toxoplasmosis by:
- Cooking meat thoroughly.
- Washing your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat or gardening.
- Having someone else clean the cat litter box (if possible) and ensuring it's cleaned daily.
- Keeping cats indoors to prevent them from hunting and becoming infected.
- Washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
While the term "cat lady disease" may sound dismissive, understanding toxoplasmosis and taking preventive measures is important, particularly for pregnant women and those with compromised immune systems.
