Parasite: Cryptosporidium

Cryptosporidium is a microscopic parasite that causes the diarrheal disease cryptosporidiosis. The parasite and the disease are known as "Crypto." There are several species of Cryptosporidium that infect both humans and animals. The Cryptosporidium has an outer shell that protects and allows the parasite to survive outside the body for long durations. The outer shell makes the parasite tolerant to chlorine disinfection.

The parasite can be transmitted in many ways. The most common modes of transmission include drinking water and recreational water in every region of the United States and throughout the world. The parasite typically comes from run off water from cattle farms.

Identify statistics about its prevalence around the world

United States: In  2009, 7656 confirmed and probable cases of cryptosporidiosis (2.5 per 100,000 population) were reported. In 2010, 8951 confirmed and probable cases (2.9 per 100,000 population) were reported. Cases were reported in children aged 1–9 years and adults aged 25–29 years.

Cryptosporidium Life Cycle

Cryptosporidium Treatment Options

§ Anti-parasitic drugs: E.g., nitazonide (Alinia) to reduce diarrhea by compromising metabolic processes of cryptosporidium organisms, azithromycin (Zithromax) in combination with one of these drugs for people with compromised immune system.

§ Anti-motility agents: E.g., loperamide and its derivatives (Imodium A-D) slow down movements of intestine and increase fluid absorption to alleviate diarrhea and restore normal stools.

§ Fluid replacement: Oral or intravenous replacement fluids and electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, and calcium, all maintain body fluid balance by keeping body hydrated.

§ Antiretroviral therapies: For those with HIV/AIDS, increasing active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) can decrease viral load in the body and boost immune response. Restoration of immune system to a certain level may resolve symptoms of cryptosporidiosis.

Cryptosporidium Means of Prevention

§ Practice good hygiene, including washing hands with soap and water after using the toilet and changing diapers, and before and after eating.

§ Thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables with uncontaminated water. Avoid eating foods suspected of contamination. Avoid uncooked foods when traveling in developing countries.

§ Purify drinking water if traveling in an area with a high risk of infection or having a weakened immune system.

§ Limit swimming activities in lakes, streams and public swimming pools, particularly if water is likely to be contaminated or if one has a compromised immune system.

§ Avoid fecal exposure during sexual activity.

§ Carefully handle newborn farm and domestic animals. Wash hands after handling these animals.

References:

http://www.cdc.gov/parasites/crypto/

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cryptosporidium/basics/definition/CON-20030375

http://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/rwi/illnesses/cryptosporidium.html

http://www.cdc.gov/parasites/crypto/biology.html

http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/ss6105a1.htm

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