Action line 80606 - Sand alternatives Published Aug. 19, 2008 By Anonymous 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey -- Complaint: I am concerned about the sand underneath the play equipment including Arkadas Park. Since arriving here, I have noticed many cats using the sanded areas as litter boxes. The play structures are great but trying to convince my son not to play in the sand is nearly impossible especially when we see so many children unaware of the dangers of cat feces/urine in the sand. There are many other options to use underneath play equipment that will not present a health risk to children. Although I am not a medical doctor, I have seen numerous studies on the dangers of cat feces and urine. In my research, I have found that a cat who is suffering from intestinal parasites, such as roundworms or tapeworms, can pass the eggs of these parasites in his feces. Should another animal come in contact with the infected cat's feces, he is immediately at risk of contracting the parasites. And take note, some worms can be passed from animals to humans. Every year about 10,000 children annually, for example, are infected with roundworms. Another parasite that can spread from cats to people is the organism that causes toxoplasmosis. Symptoms of toxoplasmosis include fever, shortness of breath and neurological problems. If a mother-to-be contracts the disease in her first trimester, it can produce cysts in the brain of the fetus. This can lead to developmental abnormalities or even miscarriage. The organism that causes toxoplasmosis is common in raw meat and gardening soil, and can also sometimes be found in cat feces. Response: You're right: there are many health risks from exposure to cat feces and urine. And, as you well know, it is very difficult stopping cats from using the sand under the playground equipment as their personal litter box. However, there are several steps we're taking, and some you can take, too. We currently only have three playgrounds that have sand. All the others have rubberized matting which not only prevents cats from doing their business, but also protects the kids from fall related injuries. Our Civil Engineer Squadron is programming projects to install the rubberized safety matting at the three remaining locations. These projects will compete for funding in fiscal year 09 or potentially at the end of 08. In the mean time, decreasing the stray cat population, keeping "pets" inside and not feeding the stray cat population will reduce the danger. In addition, we recommend that children and adults wear closed-toe shoes when in the sand to prevent parasites from entering through the feet. Hands should be washed thoroughly and immediately after playing on the playground to avoid spreading any parasites the individual may have come in contact with since many parasites enter the body through ingestion. Also, expectant mothers should avoid the sand due to the potential of toxoplasmosis from the cat feces. Thanks for raising this important issue to everyone's attention and please contact Public Health if you have any questions at 676-6123.