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Exposure to T. gondii eggs in cat litter or contaminated water, as well as intake of undercooked meat that harbours the parasite, are all possible ways of transmission of the infection.

The common cat-borne parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) increased frailty among older adults.
A new study has revealed a connection between the common cat-borne parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) and its potential role in increased frailty among older adults. With an estimated 11–15 percent of the US population having encountered this cat parasite, a study sheds light on the potential long-term health consequences associated with this parasitic infection.
The study consists of 601 Spanish and Portuguese adults over 65 years of age. Blood tests were held to assess frailty markers that are characterised by unintentional weight loss, exhaustion, cognitive decline, reduced mobility, muscle loss, and fatigue.
According to Science Alert, the study’s authors, including Professor Christopher Lowry of CU Boulder, emphasise that there was no direct link between T. gondii infections and frailty, but the strong association suggests that individuals displaying a robust immune response, marked by elevated antibodies, showed signs of heightened frailty with ageing.
“We often think of Toxoplasma gondii infection as relatively asymptomatic, but this study highlights that for some people it may have significant health consequences later on,” said Professor Christopher Lowry.
The analysis revealed that 67 percent of the participants had signs of a vital immune response to T. gondii and displayed elevated levels of inflammation biomarkers. While the connection isn’t confirmed, a correlation emerged between an intensified immune reaction to the parasite and an increased likelihood of being frail in older age.
Preventive measures
Citing the growing infection rates with age and T. gondii’s capacity to lie dormant for decades, researchers advocate for extra precautions to prevent infection. It’s especially significant for pregnant women and immunocompromised persons to take precautions.
Exposure to T. gondii eggs in cat litter or contaminated water, as well as intake of undercooked meat that harbours the parasite, are all possible ways of transmission of the infection. It is critical to encourage practices such as keeping cats indoors and avoiding contact with strays.
Beyond frailty, T. gondii has previously been linked to skeletal muscle damage as well as schizophrenia, revealing the parasite’s multifaceted impact on health.
As per reports, up to 15 percent of Americans have been infected with Toxoplasma gondii and in some countries; more than 65 percent have been infected. It is to be noted that these rates are higher among older people.
In addition to that, this parasite can remain latent for years, which calls for more investigation into how it might be prevented from causing harm, particularly among vulnerable populations like the elderly or those with compromised immune systems.