Common Name(s):
Crypto
Alternative Names & Classifications:
Cryptosporidiosis (CLINICAL)
Description
The Cryptosporidium parasite is highly tolerant to standard chlorine treatments and transmits via the fecal-oral route, usually through contaminated recreational or drinking water. It causes a self-limiting but severe diarrheal illness in healthy individuals. However, it can lead to chronic, life-threatening dehydration in immunocompromised patients, such as those with advanced HIV.