Cryptosporidiosis
By: Julianna Jones
Cryptosporidiosis Project
The Main Cause- The cause of this disease is bacteria provided by humans or animals that have been infected.
How is it Transmitted? You can become infected by accidentally swallowing the parasite. The parasite can be found in soil, water, food, or places that have been contaminated.
Symptoms-
- Watery diarrhea
- Lack of appetite
- Dehydration
- Weight loss
- Stomach cramps or pain
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Treatment- People who have very strong and healthy immune systems will recover without a treatment. Nitazoxanide is FDA- approved to help diarrhea. A health care provider should be consulted before this medicine is taken.
Prevention- You should wash your hands in warm water for at least 20 seconds before eating, after using the toilet, or after changing a diaper.
A few interesting facts about Cryptosporidiosis-
- This disease has become one of the most common reasons for waterborne diseases
- It is highly contagious if left untreated
- Swallowing water during water activities is a common way the disease is spread
- Crypto is the little parasites that actually cause the disease
Sources Used-
http://www.nfid.org/publications/factsheets/cryptosporidium.pdf
https://www.plano.gov/DocumentCenter/View/75
www.medicinenet.com/cryptosporidiosis/article.htm