Can a person be immune to toxoplasmosis?

Yes, a person can be immune to toxoplasmosis. Immunity to toxoplasmosis is acquired after an initial infection with the Toxoplasma gondii parasite. Once a person has been infected with T. gondii, their immune system develops antibodies that recognize and attack the parasite, preventing future infections. This type of immunity is known as acquired immunity and it is long-lasting, providing protection against reinfection.

In most cases, the initial infection with T. gondii is asymptomatic or causes mild, flu-like symptoms that may go unnoticed. After the primary infection, the parasite forms tissue cysts in various organs, including the brain, muscles, and eyes, where it can remain dormant for the rest of the person's life. The presence of these tissue cysts does not typically cause symptoms or harm to the individual, but they can reactivate in certain situations, such as during pregnancy or in people with weakened immune systems, leading to toxoplasmosis.

However, it's important to note that while most people develop immunity after an initial infection, some individuals may have a weakened or compromised immune system that makes them more susceptible to reactivation of the parasite and subsequent development of toxoplasmosis. Therefore, it's still essential for individuals with weakened immune systems to take precautions to prevent infection with T. gondii.