One parasite long known in the medical field to be a concern for pregnant women and those who are immuno-suppressed has been attributed to cats.

But what you might not know is that it can be transmitted by other warm-blooded species, and eating undercooked or contaminated meat.

Toxoplasmosis, caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii,can be minimized by good hygiene techniques and cooking practices.

For those with a confirmed infection, a new test approved by the Food and Drug Administration, can pinpoint the date of infection.

According to the FDA, the test, VIDAS TOXO IgG Avidity assay, can indicate whether infection has occurred in the last 16 weeks. IgG avidity antibodies from infections older than four months bind tightly with the antigens, while the IgG avidity antibodies from infections acquired in the previous four months form weaker bonds.

The test is manufactured by bioMérieux Inc.

It's important to know when an infection of toxoplasmosis had taken place. Recent transmission to pregnant women can and must be treated to prevent infection to the fetus, as severe consequences can result. Typical complications of fetal infection include blindness, mental impairment and chorioretinis — which can show up later.

Treatment includes the use of antibiotics.

Tips on avoiding toxoplasmosis:

• Cook foods at safe temperatures, and use a food thermometer to ensure that meat is cooked thoroughly. Juices should be clear.
• Cleanse surfaces and utensils used to prepare raw meat and hands with hot, soapy water after they have come in contact with raw foods.
• Wear gloves when gardening and during any contact with soil or sand because it might contain cat feces. Good hand washing is a must after coming in contact with soil or sand.
• Avoid changing cat litter, if possible, when you're pregnant. If you must handle the task, wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterward. Have someone change the litter box daily, keep your cat inside, and do not handle stray or adopted cats.
• Do not feed your cat raw or undercooked meats.
  
• Peel or thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables before eating.

To read the FDA press release, click here.

Lorrie Shaw is lead pets blogger for AnnArbor.com and owner of Professional Pet Sitting. Shoot her an email, contact her at 734-904-7279 or follow her adventures on Twitter.