Blaby District Council

Summary

Cryptosporidiosis is an illness caused by a germ called cryptosporidium. It causes watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps and fever.

Further information

How can I catch it?

• From someone already suffering from the illness. The illness spreads more easily in children because they are less likely to practice good hygiene.
• From farm animals (especially sheep and cows) and from pets. Always wash your hands after handling animals.
• From drinking unpasteurised (green top) milk.
• By drinking water which contains the germ (although it is very rarely found in ordinary tap water). Do not drink water from a stream without boiling it first.
• From undercooked and raw meat.

How does it cause illness?

When the germs are swallowed, they grow in the gut. Symptoms usually start in 7 - 10 days.

How long does the illness last and is there any treatment?

In healthy people the illness normally lasts for 2 to 3 weeks.

Cryptosporidiosis can threaten the life of people with reduced immunity.

If you have diarrhoea, drink plenty of fluids. Your body should fight off the germ naturally and no antibiotics are required.

Is there anything I should do whilst I am ill?

Wash hands with soap in warm running water and dry thoroughly, especially before preparing food and after using the toilet. Avoid preparing food for other people.

Make sure everyone at home has their own towel and flannel. Clean toilet seats, flush handles, door handles and taps frequently with hot soapy water and disinfectant solution. Soiled clothes and bedding should be washed on their own in the washing machine, on the hottest cycle.

Will I need to stay off work/school?

You must stay away from work or school until symptom free and 48 hours after your first normal stool.

If your work involves handling food, nursing or working with the young, sick or elderly, you must tell your employer.

Contact us

Officer / Team	Commercial Environmental Health Team
Postal address	Blaby District Council Council Offices Desford Road Narborough Leicester LE19 2EP
E-mail address	env.health@blaby.gov.uk
Telephone	0116 272 7555
Fax	0116 272 7594

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This page was last updated on 3rd September 2009