On Feb. 6, 1970, a report identified a coccidian parasite of cats with all non-feline warm blooded animals (including humans) as intermediate hosts. The discovery of the environmentally resistant stage of the parasite, the oocyst, made it possible to explain its worldwide prevalence.

Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by a single-celled parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. It is the leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the United States. The parasite occurs worldwide and can last for long periods of time (up to a lifetime) in human bodies (and other animals).

Over 40 million people are infected with the parasite in the United States. Most people with healthy immune systems who get toxoplasmosis do not have symptoms. Those with symptoms may experience flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, and pains.