Cryptosporidiosis history and symptoms

Symptoms
Symptoms appear from two to ten days after infection and last for up to two weeks or so. As well as watery diarrhea there is often stomach pains or cramps and a low fever. Some individuals are asymptomatic (have no symptoms) but are still infective and thus can pass on the infection to others. Even after symptoms have finally subsided that individual is still infective for some weeks. Severe disease, including pancreatitis, can occur.

Treatment is primarily supportive. Fluids need to be replaced with oral rehydration. A lactose free diet should be taken as tolerated. In rare situations, intravenous fluids may be required. Antibiotics are not usually helpful, and are primarily reserved for persons with severe disease and a weak immune system. Sometimes relapses happen.

Prevention is through washing hands carefully after going to the bathroom or contacting stool, and before eating. If the water supply is in question, the water can be boiled or carefully filtered before drinking.