There are not any cost-effective vaccines or treatments to prevent or cure this disease. However, according to Dr. Clell Bagley, Utah State Extension Veterinarian, there is a rumor going around in dairy circles that Deccox will aid in prevention of Crypto. Dr. Bagley discourages this practice since it puts the calves at risk of toxicity with very little evidence of benefit to Crypto. Research at Utah State has looked at a whole host of medications and products and has only found a couple that are somewhat effective. These are used for human treatment, but are much too expensive for calves.
Colostrum is important for prevention of most diseases of newborn calves.
It is especially important in the prevention of Crypto. Feed at least two quarts of colostrum within one to four hours of birth and repeat that within 12 hours. Some dairies are feeding a gallon of colostrum at the first feeding and find it works well. If problems continue, it may be necessary to sample some calves at 3-5 days of age to determine their absorption of colostrum. Sanitation is important for prevention of Crypto, as this organism is very resistant.