Some trials have been made in the USA and Europe with antibiotic treatments (such as "spiramycin" or a mix of "pyrimethamine" and "sulfadiazine") but so far the results are inconclusive.  The idea of these drugs is to try to reduce the chance of a child contracting the parasite from a mother with an active infection.

The best way to reduce the risk of contracting the parasite is to follow a few simple guidelines during pregnancy.

Avoiding the problem during pregnancy

There is no vaccine to prevent infection, however a few simple rules can help to avoid contact with the parasite if immunity is not present in the mother's body.  The following steps can just about eliminate the risks of infection.

• Avoid eating raw or rare (undercooked) meats.

• Wash all fruits & vegetables thoroughly.

• Wash hands well after contact with food, soil or cats.

• Don't eat raw eggs or drink untreated milk.

• Properly clean all work surfaces & utensils before & after food preparation.

• Pregnant women should avoid changing the cat litter.

• The cat litter should be regularly disinfected in boiling water.

• Use gloves when gardening & wash well afterwards.

• Cover up children's sand pits to keep the cats away.

• Keep flies & cockroaches out of the house (but watch out that you don't breath in the chemicals).

• If you are a farmer, avoid the sheep during lambing season.

What about the cat?

There is not really a need to get rid of the cat or stop touching it thanks to their famous cleanliness, although getting a neighbor to look after it during pregnancy can provide more peace of mind.  Remember that long-term cat owners have a higher chance of immunity already in their system.

Cats that remain strictly indoors do not normally carry as much risk as outdoor cats which tend to get the infection when they kill a mouse or bird that has the parasite.

If your cat stays with you, follow the guidelines above and wash your hands after touching it.

1. Toxoplasmosis - Causes & symptoms

2. Screening, Risks & Diagnosis

3. Treatments & Avoidance Guidelines