United States: In Westchester County, United States, concerns regarding potential toxoplasmosis exposure have been raised by the local health department. It has recently been reported that two individuals have tested positive for toxoplasmosis.
According to initial reports from health officials, the two affected individuals were in contact with others during two separate game dinners held on January 19th and 20th, Friday and Saturday, at the Moses Taylor Jr. American Legion Post in Mount Kisco.
Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by the parasite T. gondii.
How is the Westchester County Health Department addressing the potential exposure?
In response to the possibility of an outbreak, the Health Department is advising individuals who consumed food or handled leftovers at the game dinners to seek immediate medical evaluation from their physicians.
Moreover, the department recommends testing for toxoplasmosis.
Furthermore, individuals with weakened immune systems who experience changes in vision, eye symptoms, or other related symptoms, as well as pregnant individuals, are urged to contact the agency at 914-813-5180 during business hours or 914-813-5000 after hours.
Key Information about Toxoplasmosis
Toxoplasmosis, caused by the T. gondii parasite, can be particularly severe and even fatal for pregnant women and those with compromised immune systems. In pregnant women, it can lead to birth defects or miscarriages.
Additionally, health authorities stress that the parasite may cause prolonged visual impairments in infected individuals.
It’s important to note that in most cases, the human immune system prevents the parasite from causing illness, and treatment is often unnecessary.
Health officials also highlight that symptoms of toxoplasmosis can resemble those of flu, including muscle aches, headaches, fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and sore throat. In some cases, individuals may experience long-term effects such as vision problems.
Furthermore, human infections with the T. gondii parasite can be categorized as congenital or acquired:
Congenital infections occur when the parasite is transmitted to the fetus during pregnancy via the placenta.
Acquired infections are typically a result of consuming raw or undercooked meat from infected animals or ingesting contaminated water or soil. Additionally, transmission can occur through blood transfusions from infected donors.
These measures are being taken to ensure public safety and to prevent further spread of toxoplasmosis in the community.