Cryptosporidiosis

Parasite - Cryptosporidium

Symptoms - Watery diarrhea, stomach pain, dehydration, nausea, vomiting, fever, weight loss.  For some individuals who become infected, there may be no symptoms at all.

Sources - Cryptosporidium can be found in the soil, water, food, and any surfaces that have become contaminated with infected animal or human feces.

Incubation Period - After exposure, symptoms generally develop within 2 to 10 days.  On average, symptoms usually begin 7 days after exposure.

Duration of Illness - Symptoms generally last for about 1-2 weeks, with symptoms going in cycles where infected persons will feel better then feel worse again before the illness ends.

Treatment - Most people will recover from the illness without treatment.  Drinking plent of fluids will help to prevent dehydration.  Your healthcare provider will provide medication should it be needed.

Prevention - All food workers must adhere to good handwashing practices at all times and especially after using the bathroom.  All uncooked food that will be eaten raw should be thoroughly washed before consumption, as Cryptosporidium can live for a long period of time outside of the body.

For more information on Cryptosporidiosis, Click Here

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