New review links Toxoplasma gondii to wider fertility risks

Toxoplasma gondii may be a broader fertility threat than many clinicians assumed, according to a new review in Veterinary Sciences published April 30, 2026. The paper argues that the parasite’s reproductive impact extends beyond its well-established role in congenital infection, summarizing evidence that T. gondii may directly impair both female and male fertility through inflammation, endocrine disruption, placental injury, and damage to sperm and reproductive tissues. The review comes as public health agencies continue to emphasize that toxoplasmosis remains especially important in pregnancy, while cats remain the definitive host in the parasite’s life cycle. (mdpi.com)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals, the review is a reminder that toxoplasmosis conversations shouldn’t stop at “pregnancy risk.” CDC says more than 40 million people in the U.S. are infected, usually without symptoms, and exposure can occur through undercooked meat, contaminated produce or soil, and contact with cat feces. CAPC notes that most infected cats are asymptomatic, that antibody-positive cats are unlikely to be shedding infectious oocysts, and that routine feline testing has important limits, which makes prevention counseling more valuable than blanket fear messaging. (cdc.gov)

What to watch: Expect more attention on whether these fertility signals translate into clearer screening, counseling, or One Health prevention guidance for breeding animals, pregnant patients, and pet parents as follow-up studies emerge. (mdpi.com)