The outbreak of the parasitic disease, cryptosporidiosis, in Central Ohio increased by 22 cases in the past week, bringing the total in the three counties of Columbus, Franklin and Delaware counties to 937.
Crytosporidium, or “Crypto” is a protozoan parasite that causes diarrhea. It is found in the fecal matter of a person who has been infected by crypto. It is spread by swallowing water that has been contaminated with fecal matter containing crypto. It can also be spread from human-to-human contact.
Symptoms include watery diarrhea with abdominal pain and cramping, which can be accompanied by dehydration, weight loss, fever, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms can last for two weeks, with improvement often followed by recurrence. Infected persons can continue to spread the disease for several weeks after diarrhea subsides, so they should avoid activities involving recreational waters for at least two weeks after diarrhea subsides and practice diligent handwashing.
- University of Illinois reports dozens of hand, foot and mouth disease cases
- Florida screwworm update: Flies detected on multiple Keys, 10% of Key deer euthanized
- China: ‘Brain-eating amoeba’ takes life of Shenzhen man: Media report