Cryptosporidiosis is an intestinal illness caused by a parasite called Cryptosporidium paryum.
It lives in the intestines of infected humans and animals and is passed through the feces. It
may be found in soil, food, water or surfaces that have been contaminated with
feces from infected humans or animals.
AT A GLANCE
What it is: Cryptosporidiosis is an intestinal illness caused by a parasite called Cryptosporidium paryum that lives in the intestines of infected humans and animals.
Transmission: Crypto is spread through the feces of infected humans or animals.
It can be transmitted by eating or drinking something that has come in contact with infected material,
accidentally swallowing water (as in a pool, lake, or river) that has been contaminated, and eating uncooked food
that has been contaminated.
Symptoms: Symptoms may include diarrhea, stomach cramps, upset stomach,
and a slight fever. Some people have no symptoms.
Prevention: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the
bathroom and after every diaper change. Avoid swimming in water that might be contaminated.
Don't drink untreated water. Don't drink the water when traveling in countries where the water
supply might not be safe. Wash all fruits and vegetables before eating them.
Treatment: There is no specific treatment. Most people recover on their own.
People who become infected should drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
