Walsh & Hoyt: Toxoplasmosis: Prevention

Preventive measures to minimize human contact with infectious forms of T. gondii are important in controlling both acquired and congenital forms of toxoplasmosis. Adequately cooking meat kills the tissue cysts and prevents this form of transmission. All persons, but particularly pregnant women and immunosuppressed patients, should use care in handling raw meat, raw vegetables, cats and their litter boxes, and contaminated soil. Eggs should not be eaten raw, and unpasteurized milk should be avoided. Sandboxes should be kept covered when not in use, and cat litter pans should be cleaned every day to avoid sporulation of oocysts. Gloves should be worn while disposing of cat litter material, working in the garden, or cleaning a childs sandbox.