Cryptosporidiosis

Cryptosporidiosis is a parasite found in the body, and in many other mammals, birds and reptiles. It multiplies in the intestines and excretes what are known as oocysts in the faeces of the host. These oocysts carry within them the infective form and when ingested by another animal they can transmit the disease.

What are the symptoms? - Infection of the bowel, which usually starts between 1 and 12 days after becoming infected. The symptoms are diarrhoea, stomach pains and fever, often lasting around 10 days. However, the illness can be more severe and prolonged in people with impaired immune systems.
How does it spread? - The germ can be spread from person to person by direct contact with infected faeces on unwashed hands, or by contamination of food. The disease spreads easily within families and playgroups, day care centres etc. unless precautions are taken.
Contaminated drinking water may result in infection, especially water from unpurified sources. Unpasteurised milk has also been identified as a source of infection.
How do I stop it spreading? - Clean the following, at least twice daily or when visibly soiled, with detergent and water followed by an appropriate disinfectant:-

Toilet seat
Toilet bowl
Flush handles
Taps and wash hand basin

How do I prevent it?

Maintain a good standard of personal hygiene.
Have your own personal towel / face cloth.
Stay away from other people until your diarrhoea has stopped.
Only drink pasteurised milk.
If it is suspected that water is contaminated with crytosporidiosis, it should be boiled before drinking.
Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water after going to the toilet, after contact with any animals especially farm animals, after changing a baby's nappy, before preparing and serving food and before eating food.

Should I stay away from school or work? - You should stay away from school / work until the diarrhoea or vomiting has stopped. Some people in higher risk groups e.g food handlers, those working in certain health care facilities, or with children under 5, should not return until 48 hours after the first normal bowel motion. An Environmental Health Officer will advise in particular circumstances.

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Cryptosporidiosis