Cryptosporidium Cryptosporidium parvum is a protozoan, single-celled parasite, that is carried by animals and people. This protozoan forms an oocyst that is excreted in feces of infected animals and humans. Infections are acquired by ingesting oocysts in food or water, or personal contact with an infected individual. Ingesting Cryptosporidium may result in Cryptosporidiosis, a gastrointestinal illness. There is no drug that can be used to cure Cryptosporidiosis.
People usually recover on their own and develop some immunity to future infections.
The Skaneateles Lake Watershed Agricultural Program utilizes a multi-barrier approach to minimize pathogen concerns. Barrier one aims to prevent pathogens from occurring at the source, namely preweaned, young animals. Improving animal health is the most effective means of reducing pathogen presence. An example of this is the formulation of herd health plans for livestock producers. Barrier two attempts to prevent the transport of pathogens off the farmstead.