D2I2.
infection⚑ High burden in India

Cryptosporidiosis

Cryptosporidiosis, sometimes informally called crypto, is a disease caused by Cryptosporidium, a of protozoan in the phylum Apicomplexa. It affects the small and can affect the tract in both immunocompetent and individuals, resulting in watery with or without an unexplained cough. In immunosuppressed individuals, the symptoms are particularly severe and can be fatal. It is primarily spread through the route, often through contaminated water; recent evidence suggests that it can also be transmitted via fomites contaminated with respiratory . Cryptosporidium is commonly isolated in patients presenting with diarrhea.

Underlined words are explained — tap any of them.

Symptoms — what it feels like

  • ·Watery , , pain, fever

Causes — why it happens

  • ·Cryptosporidium

Prevention

  • ·Avoid contaminated water

Treatment

  • ·Nitazoxanide

Test yourself

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4 quick questions on Cryptosporidiosis. Tap an answer to check it.

1. What causes cryptosporidiosis?
2. What is the main symptom of cryptosporidiosis?
3. How is Cryptosporidium primarily spread?
4. In which group are cryptosporidiosis symptoms particularly severe and possibly fatal?
Plain-language summary adapted from Wikipedia. Not medical advice.