It is an important emerging infection in the United States. Cryptosporidiosis parasites are passed in the stool of infected persons and animals.
People get cryptosporidiosis when they swallow the parasites.
Sources of disease include parasite-containing stool, food, and water. Anyone can get cryptosporidiosis, but persons with weakened immune systems can develop serious, life-threatening illness. There is no specific treatment for cryptosporidiosis. Cryptosporidiosis can be prevented by washing hands, drinking safe water, eating safe food, and avoiding all contact with the stool of infected persons or animals. Cryptosporidiosis is a parasitic illness that causes diarrhea.