Key Messages:
- Cryptosporidiosis (crypto) cases are on the rise in Victoria.
- Some infections are linked to public swimming pools, with people attending while infectious.
- To prevent water contamination, refrain from swimming during and two weeks after diarrhoea stops.
- Health professionals, when encountering gastroenteritis, consider cryptosporidiosis, especially in recent pool users.
Cryptosporidium Infection Overview:
- Caused by Cryptosporidium parasite, leading to gastroenteritis.
- Notifiable condition.
- Spread through contaminated water, uncooked food, and contact with infected people or animals.
- Infection requires oral intake of the parasite.
Symptoms:
- Mainly watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and, less commonly, fever and vomiting.
- Lasts 1 to 2 weeks in those with normal immune systems.
Diagnosis:
- Microscopic examination of faecal samples or PCR test in a pathology lab.
Incubation Period: 1 to 12 days, averaging 7 days.
Infectious Period:
- Begins with symptom development.
- Lasts several weeks after symptoms disappear.
Treatment:
- No specific treatment for those with normal immune systems.
- Limited options for immune-suppressed individuals.
- General recommendations for gastroenteritis treatment.
When to Seek Medical Advice:
- Signs of dehydration, fever, severe abdominal pain, or bloody diarrhoea.
Prevention:
- Exclude infected individuals from childcare, school, and work until 24 hours symptom-free.
- Thorough handwashing, especially after handling infected individuals, food, using the toilet, gardening, changing diapers, and contact with animals.
- Caution with water and food consumption in unsafe environments.
- Avoid swimming for 14 days after diarrhoea stops.
- Proper measures for babies/small children in pools and in case of accidents.
- Caution with bath-sharing and proper disinfection.
- Avoid contact with farm animals.
- Wash/peel raw fruits and vegetables.
Stay informed and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of cryptosporidiosis.
