This Cat Parasite Infects Billions of People. Scientists Say We’ve Been Underestimating It
Scientists urge WHO to classify toxoplasmosis as a neglected tropical disease after new global infection estimates
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The brief
Researchers have called for urgent action from the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding toxoplasmosis, a parasite primarily linked to cats that may infect up to one-third of the global population. Coverage highlights risks to vision, pregnancy outcomes, and neurological health, with experts emphasizing the disease’s underreported burden. Reports from *CPG Click Petróleo e Gás*, *Scientific Frontline*, and *News-Medical* note a push to classify ocular toxoplasmosis as a neglected tropical disease (NTD) to secure funding and research attention.
The WHO has not yet responded to the call, but the urgency stems from long-standing underestimation of toxoplasmosis cases worldwide. *Gizmodo* and *Scientific Frontline* frame the issue as a public health oversight, with experts arguing that current data gaps hinder effective prevention and treatment. The focus is on ocular toxoplasmosis, a leading cause of infectious blindness, though broader health impacts—including congenital infections—are also cited. Next steps depend on WHO’s classification decision and potential policy shifts.
If designated an NTD, toxoplasmosis could gain priority in global health programs, including funding for diagnostics and vaccines. Coverage does not yet specify timelines for WHO action or broader public health responses.
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Quick answers
What is toxoplasmosis?
A parasitic infection caused by *Toxoplasma gondii*, primarily transmitted through contact with cat feces or undercooked meat. It can lead to severe complications, including vision loss, congenital disabilities, and neurological disorders.
Why is the WHO being urged to classify it as a neglected tropical disease?
Experts argue that toxoplasmosis has been understudied and underfunded despite its high global prevalence. NTD status could mobilize resources for research, treatment, and public health campaigns, particularly for ocular toxoplasmosis.
Is there a vaccine or cure for toxoplasmosis?
No licensed vaccine exists, though treatment with antiparasitic drugs can reduce symptoms. Prevention focuses on hygiene (e.g., avoiding raw meat, cleaning litter boxes) and public awareness. Coverage does not detail new treatment breakthroughs.
Coverage (5)
- Parasite Affecting 1 in 3 People Is a Serious Risk to Human Health, Scientists Warn ScienceAlert · 14h ago
- Scientists Warn WHO: Cat-Linked Parasite Infects One-Third of Global Population, Poses Risks to Vision, Pregnancy, and Neurological Health CPG Click Petróleo e Gás · 14h ago
- Toxoplasmosis: The Global NTD Push Scientific Frontline · 14h ago
- Experts urge neglected tropical disease status for ocular toxoplasmosis News-Medical · 14h ago
- This Cat Parasite Infects Billions of People. Scientists Say We’ve Been Underestimating It Gizmodo · 14h ago
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