False-colour scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of Toxoplasma gondii sporozoans leaving an infected cell. The crescent-shaped protozoans cause toxoplasmosis in humans. The disease is especially dangerous to pregnant women; transmission to the developing foetus can cause stillbirth, neonatal death & congenital deformities including blindness & mental retardation.Cats are the definitive host, but all mammals may become infected. Cats excrete the oocysts in their faeces,contaminating the soil & causing infection in humans & animals. Infection also occurs via undercooked meat & direct contact. Magnification:x2700 at 6x4.5cm size.