How is Toxoplasmosis primarily contracted?

Toxoplasmosis is primarily contracted through the consumption of raw or undercooked meats that are infected with the Toxoplasma gondii parasite. This parasite can be present in various types of meat, particularly pork, lamb, and beef. When these meats are not thoroughly cooked to safe internal temperatures, the parasites may survive and lead to infection upon ingestion.

In addition to meat, other methods of transmission exist, such as handling oocysts from infected soil or litter boxes, but dietary consumption of improperly prepared meat is considered the most common route for transmission to humans. Cooking meat to the appropriate temperatures effectively kills the parasite, which highlights the importance of proper food handling and cooking practices in preventing toxoplasmosis.