What Are The Possibilities Of Acquiring Toxoplasma By Eating Unwashed Fruits?

Posted on Tue, 18 Aug 2015

Question: Hi there,
I am nearly 22 weeks pregnant and this week I actually ate two pears from the supermarket that were not washed or rinsed by me. I completely forgot to wash them. They were not being stored in the refrigerator.
I'm terrified that I may contract listeriosis or toxoplasmosis which can be asymptomatic but devastating to my baby. I have no symptoms so no way of knowing if I have ingested these parasites. How common is it to get these infections from unwashed fruit during pregnancy and what should I do? do you think this is a serious issue I should make an appointment and get tested for?
Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Mahesh Koregol (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Not a serious issue. Dont worry about it

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I understand your concerns about contracting toxoplasmosis or listerosis.

Following is my reply:

1) The possibility of you acquiring toxoplasma or listeria is not very common as all the fruits are not affected with listeria or toxoplasma.

2) Even if there is some infection, body is capable of fighting the infection and it is not easy to get infected.

3) Hence the possibility of getting infected by eating unwashed fruit is very rare and i suggest you dont worry about it.

4) This is not a serious issue and dont get worried about it. You dont need any tests.

Let me know if you need anymore help.

Regards,
Dr. Mahesh Koregol

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E