Cryptosporidium Parasite Found In UK Drinking Water, Causes Diarrhoea Outbreak

May 18, 2024

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) recently confirmed 46 cases of cryptosporidiosis in the Brixham area of south Devon. More than 100 other people have also reported identical symptoms. The Cryptosporidium parasite that is found in the local drinking water is linked to the spread. Other cases of diarrhea and vomiting in the area are still being looked into, and more proven cases are likely to come up.

What is Cryptosporidium?

Cryptosporidium is the parasite that causes cryptosporidiosis. It is very small and has only one cell. It has several species that mostly infect people and animals. The main types that infect humans are C. parvum and C. hominis, which are usually found in cattle and humans, respectively. Stomach pain, diarrhea, and vomiting are common symptoms that last for two weeks on average. Most people get better with enough rest and water, but people with weak immune systems may get really sick from the illness.

Transmission of Cryptosporidiosis

People can get cryptosporidiosis from drinking tainted water, from touching another person, or from animals to people. Infected people have the parasite living in their intestines and feces. The parasite can spread to lakes, rivers, swimming pools, untreated water, and food like raw milk and fresh fruit. People who work with animals or babies, or who are exposed to polluted water or food, are at a higher risk.

What are the preventive Measures?

The UKHSA tells people to avoid getting cryptosporidiosis by washing their hands well before and after handling food, going to the bathroom, and touching animals.

Do not drink or swallow water from lakes and pools.
Do not drink water that has not been treated.
Clean the toilets and other bathroom items often.
Use hot water to wash your clothes and blankets, and don’t share towels. –
Keep people with symptoms away from work or school for 48 hours after their symptoms go away.
Don’t go swimming for 14 days after having diarrhea or vomiting.

More About cryptosporidiosis

It is caused by Cryptosporidium, a parasite that can be found in water, food, and dirt. It doesn’t react with chlorine, which is often used to clean public water sources. Within two to ten days of getting the infection, you may start to have diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Contaminated water, like swimming pools, and contact with sick people or animals are ways that the disease is spread. It can cause serious illnesses that could be life-threatening, especially in people whose immune systems aren’t working well. More than 400,000 people were affected by the biggest outbreak in 1993 in Milwaukee. Stool tests are needed to diagnose it, and there isn’t a good way to treat people who are at high risk. As a preventative step, you should wash your hands and stay away from water sources that are contaminated.

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