Crytosporidium parvum is a eukaryotic, protazoan parasite that live in the intestines of humans and animals, on objects and surfaces, and in soil and water.
It was first identified in 1976.
One of the most common waterborne illnesses found worldwide.
It is typically an acute short term infection of the small intestines. The parasite, commonly referred to as cryptosporidium or crypto, can resist destruction by chlorine, which increases the risk of contamination and infection through water sources.
Transmission is through fecally contaminated food and water, animal to person contact, and via person to person contact. (Hannahs, 2011)
The most prevalent of water transmission is recreational waters such as swimming pools.
Other contaminates include: earth, uncooked or cross-contaminated food that has been contaminated with the feces of an infected animal or individual.
To get infected with cryposporidium, the contaminate must be transferred to mouth and swallowed. The following people are generally at a higher risk for developing cryptosporidiosis: (Martin, 2011)
Young children, especially if in daycare.
Daycare workers or those who work in group settings
WHAT IS CRYPTOSPORIDIUM?
Crytosporidium parvum is a eukaryotic, protazoan parasite that live in the intestines of humans and animals, on objects and surfaces, and in soil and water.
It was first identified in 1976.
It is typically an acute short term infection of the small intestines. The parasite, commonly referred to as cryptosporidium or crypto, can resist destruction by chlorine, which increases the risk of contamination and infection through water sources.
Transmission is through fecally contaminated food and water, animal to person contact, and via person to person contact. (Hannahs, 2011)
The most prevalent of water transmission is recreational waters such as swimming pools.
To get infected with cryposporidium, the contaminate must be transferred to mouth and swallowed. The following people are generally at a higher risk for developing cryptosporidiosis: (Martin, 2011)