Symptoms and Causes of
Cryptosporidiosis

Cryptosporidiosis is an intestinal infection which is caused by Cryptosporidium parvium, a protozoal parasite. It is spread through contact with infected people or animals, or by eating food or water that has been contaminated with the parasite. Poor personal hygiene helps spread the infection. The disease occurs throughout the world. In the 1990’s, it become a frequent cause of diarrhea in children.

Sometimes there are no symptoms; at other times watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting may develop about a week after infection. Symptoms usually last 7-10 days. Those with reduced immunity (AIDS) may have chronic symptoms and develop severe malnutrition and dehydration, which can be fatal.

Lifecycle of Cryptosporidiosis: