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Cause:
Various species of the
protozoan Cryptosporidium, which form resistant
oocysts.
Illness and treatment:
Symptoms may be
prolonged, and include watery diarrhea, abdominal pain,
nausea, vomiting, weight loss and fever. An anti-protozoal
drug is available to treat persistent symptoms.
Sources:
Cryptosporidia are common in
animals. In this country oocysts are found in most surface
waters tested. Transmission is by ingesting fecally
contaminated water, milk or food, or by direct contact with
infected animals or humans. Those with asymptomatic
infections may infect others. Outbreaks have occurred in
water parks, swimming pools and child care facilities.
Additional risks:
For persons with
weakened immune systems, especially those with advanced HIV
infection, the disease can be severe and persistent.
Cryptosporidia resist standard chemical disinfectants and
may occur in municipal water systems, home filtered water,
or bottled water.
Prevention:
Wash hands thoroughly after
contact with animals, particularly calves or animals with
diarrhea. Avoid swallowing water during water recreation. Do
not drink untreated surface water. Boil untreated drinking
water for one minute or use other appropriate water
treatment.
Recent Washington trends:
Each year, 60-140
cases are reported in Washington.
2008:
99 laboratory-confirmed
cases were reported (1.5 cases/100,000 population).
Purpose of Reporting and
Surveillance
- To identify sources of
major public health concern (e.g., a public water supply or
swimming pool) and to stop further transmission.
- To identify whether the
case may be a source of infection for other persons (e.g., a
child care attendee or food handler), and if so, to prevent
further transmission.
Legal Reporting Requirements
- Health care providers: notifiable to Local Health
Jurisdiction within 3 work days
- Hospitals: notifiable to Local Health Jurisdiction
within 3 work days
- Laboratories: notifiable to Local Health Jurisdiction
within 2 work days
- Local health jurisdictions: notifiable to DOH
Communicable Disease Epidemiology within 7 days of case
investigation completion or summary information required
within 21 days
Last
update
November 2009 |
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