Cryptosporidiosis Disease: What You Should Know

With all of the diseases flooding the world today and new ones being discovered all the time, I decided to write this informative piece on Cryptosporidiosis Disease. Many do not know what it is or what causes it much less what the symptoms are when a person contracts it. So, to enlighten all of my readers and educate you on this disease that is actually rather common, I designed this article to be a source of valuable information on this specific topic.

What is Cryptosporidiosis Disease?

Cryptosporidiosis is an intestinal disease caused by microscopic parasites of the genus Cryptosporidium. The parasite makes a home in the intestine and eventually passes in the stool. But, it can live outside of the human or animal host because it is protected by a hard outer shell. It is due to this defense mechanism that it is immune to chlorinated disinfectants.

According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control), "During the past two decades, crypto has become recognized as one of the most common causes of waterborne disease within humans in the United States. The parasite may be found in drinking water and recreational water in every region of the United States and throughout the world."

Cryptosporidiosis Disease is spread through soil, food, water, and just about any surface or area that has been contaminated by animal or human feces that may have been infected. A person can not contract Cryptosporidiosis Disease through blood, only by swallowing the parasite.

One of the easiest ways to contract Cryptosporidiosis Disease is by swallowing water from recreational areas such as lakes, rivers, pools, spas, etc. Other ways to become infected by Cryptosporidiosis Disease is through food that hasn't been cooked properly and putting something in your mouth that has been contaminated.

What are the Symptoms of Cryptosporidiosis Disease?

The symptoms usually surface within the first week and include dehydration, weight loss, stomach cramps or pain, fever, nausea and vomiting. It is important to note that while this particular parasite infests the small intestine it can spread and impact the entire digestive and respiratory tract.

Who is at Risk?

Everyone is pretty much at risk for becoming infected with Cryptosporidiosis Disease. But those especially susceptible are children in daycare centers, those who love swimming, travelers and those who drink water from natural sources without first boiling it.

Pregnant women, the elderly and small children have the most risk of not pulling through Cryptosporidiosis Disease. It is usually the dehydration that can claim the lives of these types of people. If you think you may be infected see your health care provider immediately and let them know that you want to be tested for Cryptosporidiosis Disease specifically.