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The Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul has reported an outbreak of toxoplasmosis in the city of Santa Maria. Between 16 April and 8 May 2018, 792 cases have been notified. Of 617 suspect cases, 218 were laboratory-confirmed, 70 were discarded and 319 remain under investigation.
Toxoplasmosis is caused by infection with the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. The parasite is common in cats, raw meat and sometimes drinking water and it is from these sources many infections occur. In many cases, this produces a mild flu-like illness that lasts for weeks or months. However, some infections have more sever outcomes e.g. eye and /or brain damage, particularly if a person has been infected since birth. Toxoplasmosis during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth or other disease in the newborn child.
For further advice see Food and Water Precautions.