What is cryptosporidiosis?
Cryptosporidiosis is an intestinal infection caused by a parasite called Cryptosporidium. The infection often leads to diarrhea and stomach-related symptoms.
People usually become infected after swallowing contaminated water or food. The parasite can also spread through contact with infected stool or contaminated surfaces.
Cryptosporidiosis is most often spread through contaminated water, including pools, lakes, rivers, and untreated drinking water. It can also spread through contaminated food, poor hand hygiene, or close contact with infected people or animals.
People with weakened immune systems may have a higher risk of severe illness.
Symptoms
Symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on a person’s overall health and immune system.
Common symptoms include:
- Watery diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Dehydration
Some people may have very mild symptoms or no symptoms at all, but they can still spread the infection to others.
How is it diagnosed?
Healthcare providers diagnose cryptosporidiosis by testing stool samples for the parasite. Because the parasite may not appear in every sample, more than one test may be needed.
Special laboratory testing is often required to confirm the infection.
How is it treated?
Many healthy people recover from cryptosporidiosis without prescription treatment. Care is usually focused on preventing dehydration and helping the body recover.
Treatment may include:
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Rest
- Medicines to help manage diarrhea
- Antiparasitic medicine such as nitazoxanide in some cases
People with weakened immune systems may need additional treatment and close medical monitoring.
Good handwashing and avoiding contaminated water sources can help reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
