Cryptosporidiosis: Another Reason to Wash Your Hands

Cryptosporidiosis, otherwise known simply as crypto, is a disease caused by the cryptosporidium parasite, a parasite that can proliferate in the intestines and in contaminated soil or water. The disease usually causes bad diarrhea and can be exceptionally dangerous to the very young, the old, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems.

How does a person get cryptosporidiosis?

According to the Center for Disease Control, cryptosporidiosis is very contagious and can be picked up a number of ways; normal transmission of the parasite occurs when a person comes into contact with infected soil, water, or a crypto-contaminated object, and accidentally ingests the parasite. Cryptosporidium can exist even in chlorinated water due to the parasite's hard, thick shell. Several crypto outbreaks were attributed to contaminated public swimming pools and fountains in Kansas, and other states, during the summer of 2007. Affected states included Idaho and Pennsylvania.

Crypto outbreaks are not rare. The New York Department of Health, for instance, states that around 400 cases are reported in New York State every year.

Where do crypto parasites live?

Crypto is a very hardy parasite, unfortunately, and can survive in environments many other parasites cannot. This parasite is found in the intestines of humans and animals and can live in soil or water--including chlorinated water-- or on synthetic surfaces (e.g. toys etc.). Boiling crypto-contaminated water can kill the parasite.

The symptoms of cryptosporidiosis:

Not all infected persons have symptoms, but for those who do, the usual symptom of cryptosporidiosis is watery diarrhea. People infected with this parasite may also experience pain and cramps, nausea, fatigue, and problems associated with dehydration.

How to prevent cryptosporidiosis:

Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently.

Avoid swallowing water when swimming.

Avoid contact with human or animal feces.

If contact occurs, wash hands, and any contaminated objects, thoroughly.

The treatment:

The only treatment for cryptosporidiosis is an anti-diarrhea medicine. This medicine won't cure you of the parasitic infestation; it will, however, help you to feel better and help prevent dehydration. In addition, babies can become dehydrated quickly and may need an IV ( to replace fluids) if the diarrhea is severe.

The mortality rate may not be as high with cases of crypto as some other parasites, such as naegleria fowleri--the brain eating amoeba,(which you can read about here ), but it can be dangerous nonetheless. And, unlike naegleria fowleri, crypto can be easily passed between people (especially in preschools and nurseries where there is a higher chance of encountering an object contaminated with fecal matter).

Cryptosporidiosis outbreaks can happen at any time, anywhere and in any season. In some cases, crypto may be very difficult to avoid. If you practice good hygiene, however, you will reduce your chances of getting this very unpleasant, and sometimes life-threatening illness.

For more information about cryptosporidiosis, you can visit the CDC's website.