How is toxoplasmosis newly acquired by an adult?
The Toxoplasma organism is resides in the intestinal tracts in many animals, particularly cats. Infectious organisms are shed in cat feces, and are introduced into the body by ingestion. Sandboxes and cat litter boxes are likely reservoirs of the infection. Infection risk can be minimized by practicing good hygiene including hand washing (especially before preparing or eating food) and avoiding raw or undercooked meat. It is prudent for pregnant women to avoid handling cats, cat feces, and sandboxes.