Q and A: about health and research

Toxoplasma gondii: This is the scientific name of the parasite that causes the disease . Toxoplasmosis is a common infectious disease caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii . It often goes unnoticed in healthy adults, but it can lead to complications in individuals with weakened immune systems or in pregnant women, where it poses a risk to the unborn child. Though symptoms are rare in most adults, the infection can, in uncommon cases, affect organs such as the lungs , causing respiratory illness. Symptoms of Toxoplasmosis in Adults Around 80% of healthy adults infected with Toxoplasma gondii do not show any symptoms . When symptoms occur, they are usually mild and flu-like , and may include: Fever Fatigue or general weakness Muscle and joint pain Headache and sore throat Swollen lymph nodes , especially in the neck Skin rash Occasional gastrointestinal symptoms In rare cases, especially in people with weakened immune systems, toxoplasmosis can affect the lungs ...