How can a woman prevent toxoplasmosis during pregnancy?
Cat feces and raw or undercooked meat are the most common sources of this infection. A pregnant woman can help prevent toxoplasmosis by avoiding known sources of infection (4). She should: • Not eat raw or undercooked meat, especially lamb or pork. She should cook meat to an internal temperature of 160º F; the meat should not look pink, and the juices should be clear. Freezing meat for several days before cooking helps reduce the risk of infection. • Wash her hands immediately with soap and water after handling raw meat. She should never touch her eyes, nose or mouth with potentially contaminated hands. • Clean cutting boards, work surfaces and utensils with hot, soapy water after contact with raw meat or unwashed fruits and vegetables (which can be contaminated by soil containing cat feces). • Peel or thoroughly wash all raw fruits and vegetables before eating. • Not empty or clean the cat’s litter box. Someone else should do this. An infected cat (which usually appears healthy) can s
