Cryptosporidium - Information for Patients
What kind of infection is it?
Cryptosporidium is a single celled parasite (sometimes called "Crypto").
How do people get infected?
- Cryptosporidium is often found in the intestines of calves and cows.
- Cryptosporidium can survive for a long time in water.
- Infection in people may result from drinking water contaminated with Cryptosporidium or swallowing contaminated water in swimming pools or water parks.
- Cryptosporidium can be transmitted from one person with diarrhea to another because of poor hand washing.
- Cryptosporidium can cause diarrhea in people who have traveled to poor countries.
What are the usual symptoms?
- Illness usually starts 7-10 days after exposure.
- Nausea, fatigue, diarrhea, and stomach pain or cramps.
- Diarrhea is usually watery and frequent.
How long does it last?
- 10-14 days in otherwise healthy children and adults. Can be longer in persons with weakened immune systems.
How is it treated?
- Prevent and treat dehydration. Warning signs of dehydration include dry mouth, decreased urination, or dizziness.
- Treatment is optional for otherwise healthy children who will usually get over Cryptosporidium on their own.
- A medication called nitazoxanide can shorten the duration of diarrhea.
Are there possible complications?
- Dehydration and weight loss can occur.
- Cryptosporidium can be very prolonged and hard to get rid of for patients with weakened immune systems.
- Patients who have had transplants can get Cryptosporidium in the liver or gall bladder.
Comments:
- Wash hands carefully after using the bathroom, changing diapers and before and after cooking.
- Wash hands after contact with cows or calves.
- Do not drink untreated water from rivers, streams, or ponds.
- Do not swallow water in swimming pools or water parks.
- Take children out of the pool for regular bathroom breaks.
- Children with diarrhea should not swim or use water parks.