Report Broken Link

Understanding Toxoplasmosis

Abstract:

Many people have heard of toxoplasmosis, most think it is a disease that pregnant women get from cats, which while not untrue, is misleading and but a small part of a worldwide story. It is sometimes a very sad story for newborn babies and their parents, and the saddest part of all is that it is preventable. This essay defines toxoplasmosis, and discusses its prevalence, transmission, diagnosis, and the effects of the disease on the neonate. Screening and management methods are described. Midwifery practice, on personal, professional and political levels is examined. The relevance of toxoplasmosis to New Zealand is included, and ethical issues relating to New Zealand midwifery are raised.

 view online article View Document

antenatal screening, congenital infection, toxoplasmosis, UK, United Kingdom