Cryptosporidiosis
Cryptosporidiosis (crypto) is a diarrheal disease caused by very small cryptosporidium parasites. The parasite commonly is found in drinking water and recreational water in every region of the United States and throughout the world. Cryptosporidium lives in the intestine of infected humans and animals and can also be found in soil, food, water, or surfaces that have been contaminated. A person can become infected when he/she swallows the parasite. A common symptom is watery diarrhea. Other symptoms include: dehydration, weight loss, stomach cramps or pains, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Some people with crypto may not have any symptoms at all. Symptoms usually occur two days after exposure to cryptosporidium.
Information for the General Public
- Fact Sheet
- Cryptosporidiosis and Healthy Swimming
- Recreational and Drinking Waterborne Disease Prevention
- Share the Fun, Not the Germs
- Educational Toolkit
- Traveler’s GI Illness Prevention Guide
Information for Public Health Departments
- Case Report Form
- Control Measures for a Cryptosporidiosis Outbreak in a Childcare Setting
- Cryptosporidiosis Outbreak Response & Evaluation Guidelines for State and Local Health Departments
- Disease Plan
- Public Health Professional Resources – CDC
Information for Clinicians
Information for Pool Operators
- Protect Your Facility
- Bathroom Break Prompts
- Operating Public Swimming Pools
- Your Disinfection Team – Chlorine and pH
- 2018 Model Aquatic Health Code Code Language
- 2018 Annex to the Model Aquatic Health Code Scientific Rationale
Information for Childcare Facilities
Statistics/Surveillance
Resources
- Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
- Environmental Protection Agency
- Healthy Swimming/Recreational Water
- Mayo Clinic
- MedLine Plus
- Posters and Educational Materials – CDC
- Travelers’ Health