About Cryptosporidium
Cryptosporidium is a gastrointestinal infection caused by cryptosporidium parasite. The parasites are transmitted through feces of infected animals, which can cause infection in humans via food, water, and hand-to-mouth activity
How is it transmitted?
The parasites are transmitted through feces of infected animals, which can cause infection in humans via food, water, and hand-to-mouth activity. Human to human transmission is possible when someone comes in contact with the fecal matter from an infected person.
While this parasite can be spread in several different ways, water (drinking water and recreational water) is the most common way to spread the parasite.
Signs and symptoms
Symptoms include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever.
Treatment
Most people with healthy immune systems will recover without treatment. It is also important to treat diarrhea and dehydration symptoms by drinking plenty of fluids.
Prevention
- Wash hands frequently and thoroughly, especially before handling, preparing, and eating food
- Limit contact with young children, elderly, and sick individuals
- Do not swim for 2 weeks after symptoms are resolved
If you think you have a Cryptosporidium infection, you should contact Student Health Service (215-746-3535) if symptoms persist or if you have any questions about your symptoms or treatment.
Sources:
http://www.cdc.gov/parasites/crypto/gen_info/infect.html
(updated 12/12/2019)