Cryptosporidium


What is Cryptosporidium infection?

Important Tip!

Protect yourself against getting Crytosporidium from animals. Simply wash your hands with running water and soap after any contact with animals and animal feces (stool).
 
Cryptosporidium infection (cryptosporidiosis) (krip-toe-spo-rid-ee-oh-sis) is a parasitic disease caused by Cryptosporidium parvum. It usually causes a mild to severe infection of the gastrointestinal system, including watery diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting.

Can animals give me Cryptosporidium infection?

Yes, sometimes. Most people get Cryptosporidium infection from contaminated food and water. However, sometimes animals (including farm animals, cats, and dogs) carry this parasite in their feces (stool) and pass it to people. Animals do not have to be ill to pass Cryptosporidium to humans. People with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing immunosuppressive treatments for cancer, organ transplant patients, and people with HIV/AIDS, are more likely than others to get Cryptospordium infection.

How do I reduce my risk of acquiring cryptosporidiosis from my pet?

    * After contact with animals and animal feces (stool), wash your hands thoroughly with running water and soap.
    * If you are immunocopromised and are getting a new pet, avoid strays, puppies, and dogs with diarrhea.
    * If your dog or cat has diarrhea, take it to your veterinarian.
    * If you develop symptoms, including diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and/or nausea, contact your physician. Be sure to inform him
      or her of your pet and if it is ill.
    * If you are immunocompromised, be extra cautious around farm animals and their environment.