Leading article: A vicious parasite that needs to be monitored
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Until now, Toxoplasma gondii – spread by cats – has been a largely hidden problem. Although a minority of those people infected go on to suffer appalling effects, from birth defects to blindness, the parasite had appeared to be asymptomatic in around 80 per cent of the 350,000 people who pick it up each year.
The latest research, published by this newspaper today, suggests otherwise. Indeed, its authors make tentative links between toxoplasmosis and personality changes, even schizophrenia.
With some experts warning that much of the lamb on sale in the UK is likely to be contaminated with toxoplasma cysts, advice on the dangers of under-cooked meat are a good first step. But efforts cannot end there. A national register of confirmed cases also merits consideration. More than anything, however, toxoplasma needs more research – and fast.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments