The disease known as cryptosporidiosis is contracted by the parasite Cryptosporidium. Along with other gastrointestinal (gut) symptoms, it causes watery diarrhea. Usually, public pools and other recreational swimming sites are the source of the contamination. Another name for cryptosporidiosis is crypto.
Who is impacted by cryptosporidiosis?
The age group that is most susceptible to cryptosporidiosis is one to four years old. Children are more susceptible to it because they lack proper hand washing techniques and an understanding of how germs spread. Additionally, contaminated diapers spread the crypto virus to young children and their parents.
Additionally, you run a greater chance of contracting cryptosporidiosis if you:
- Are more than 75.
- Work or reside near small children.
- Consume untreated or unfiltered water (usually when camping, trekking, or touring).
- Work with animals, especially cattle or farm animals.
- Frequent use of reactional waterways, such as lakes or rivers, or public pools.
- Those suffering from cryptosporidiosis need your attention.
When does cryptosporidiosis occur?
Over 700,000 cases of cryptosporidiosis are thought to occur in the United States annually. After rotavirus, cryptosporidiosis is the second most frequent cause of diarrhea in children.
Signs and Origins
What symptoms and indicators are present with cryptosporidiosis?
After being exposed to Cryptosporidium, you may have symptoms of cryptosporidiosis two to ten days later. Among the symptoms are:
- Diarrhea with water (may be severe).
- Cramps or pain in the stomach, or abdomen.
- Nausea.
- Throwing up.
- Appetite decline.
- Low fever.
What causes cryptosporidiosis primarily?
Although there are several ways to contract cryptosporidiosis, ingesting tainted water or getting wet when swimming in a lake, pool, or other public place are typically the main sources of infection.
Does cryptosporidiosis spread easily?
Indeed, cryptosporidiosis can transmit indirectly from person to person and is so contagious. If you have cryptosporidiosis and you touch anything after using the restroom, you could transfer the parasite to other people. Swimming when suffering from diarrhea puts you at risk of water contamination from the parasite.
It is possible for someone else to become ill if they come into contact with polluted water or surfaces after swimming in it.
Diagnoses and Examinations
How does one diagnose cryptosporidiosis?
A stool sample is used to diagnose cryptosporidiosis. You will receive instructions on how to obtain a sample as well as a sterile container from your provider. You might need to provide samples over a few days in order to receive a diagnosis because there might be a lot of parasites in your poop one day and very few on another.
In addition, your doctor will examine you physically and inquire about your medical background and symptoms.
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