What is Cryptosporidiosis?

What is Cryptosporidiosis?
Cryptosporidiosis (krip-toe-spo-rid-e-o-sis), is a diarrheal disease caused by a parasite. The parasite, is called Cryptosporidium parvum and is single celled. It can only be viewed under a microscopic. Cryptosporidium parvum can live in the intestine of humans and animals. The parasite is passed in the stool of an infected person or animal. Cryptosporidiosis and the parasite that causes it are referred to as "Crypto."

What is a Parasite?
A parasite is an organism that grows, feeds, and is sheltered on or in a different organism while contributing nothing to the survival of its host.

The cryptosporidium parvum parasite can survive outside of the body for long periods of time. It can do this because it is protected by an outer shell. The outer shell is very resistant to chlorine disinfection.

Symptoms of Cryptosporidiosis?
Some people who have cryptosporidiosis do not have symptoms. When symptoms are present, the most common symptom is watery diarrhea. Other symptoms of cryptosporidiosis are abdominal cramps, nausea, low-grade fever, dehydration, and weight loss. Symptoms usually appear between 2 and 10 days after being infected. Symptoms of cryptosporidiosis usually last for about two weeks.

How is Cryptosporidiosis spread?
The cryptosporidiosis parasite lives in the intestine of infected humans or animals. Millions of cryptosporidiosis parasites might be released in a bowel movement from an infected human or animal. You can become infected after accidentally swallowing the parasite. cryptosporidiosis may be found in soil, food, water, or surfaces that have been contaminated with the feces from infected humans or animals. cryptosporidiosis can be easily spread and is very contagious

Treatment of Cryptosporidiosis?
The usual treatment of cryptosporidiosis is to drink plenty of fluids. However, you should consult your doctor for specific treatment.

Can Cryptosporidiosis be prevented?
Yes. The easiest way to prevent cryptosporidiosis is to practice good hygene, especially after using the toilet.

Is there a cure for Cryptosporidiosis?
Not yet. Some drugs may help with the symptoms but there is not a drug to cure cryptosporidiosis.

Bad News about Cryptosporidiosis?
Cryptosporidiosis may cause complications for those with illnesses or conditions such as diabetes, alcoholism, or pregnancy. The effects of prolonged diarrhea and dehydration can be dangerous, especially for the very young and the elderly.

Cryptosporidiosis can be life threatening for individuals with compromised immune systems.