Brits are being warned about a nasty disease that “can last around two weeks” and can be avoided with proper hygiene. Cryptosporidium, a microscopic parasite, can lead to an unpleasant and sometimes dangerous condition known as cryptosporidiosis.
Unfortunately, it’s a disease anyone can contract. However, certain groups are at a higher risk, including those changing nappies or travelling to countries with poor sanitation.
It can also cause severe illness in individuals of any age with compromised immune systems. Children aged between one and five, people working with farm animals, and those exposed to contaminated water sources are also considered high-risk.
This warning comes as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued advice to anyone planning a half-term visit to a farm. While generally safe, there are some guidelines parents should be aware of when taking their children to farms and petting zoos.
The Mirror reports that symptoms typically become obvious days after infection, and the illness can last one to two weeks. Knowing the symptoms is half the battle against this illness.
What are the symptoms?
Individuals with healthy immune systems usually experience mild or asymptomatic infections, while those with weakened immune systems are more likely to have severe and prolonged infections.
- Watery diarrhoea that’s frequent and prolonged
- Stomach cramps or pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Low-grade fever
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Dehydration
There is no specific treatment for cryptosporidiosis. Most people with a healthy immune system will recover within a month.
How do you get infected?
Cryptosporidiosis, an infection caused by a microscopic parasite, can be contracted by touching infected faeces and then placing unwashed hands near the mouth. It can also be caught by swallowing contaminated water while swimming or drinking untreated water.
Consuming contaminated food, such as unwashed vegetables or raw milk, can also transmit the parasite. However, there’s good news: cryptosporidiosis is preventable by following some basic hygiene practices.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and warm water, especially before eating, after going to the toilet, and after contact with pets/animals
- Wash and peel all fruits and vegetables
- Avoid drinking untreated water
- Don’t swallow swimming pool or lake water
- Be careful with handwashing after any animal contact on farms
- Stay home from work/school until 48 hours after symptoms stop
Hand gels or wipes are not sufficient substitutes for washing your hands after visiting a farm due to the potential exposure to certain germs. Thoroughly washing your hands with liquid soap and warm running water immediately after your visit can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
Hand sanitiser is ineffective against all types of germs and does not kill cryptosporidium. Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is the best way to prevent spreading it.
If you or anyone in your group experiences symptoms such as diarrhoea or vomiting within two weeks of visiting a farm, it’s advised to contact your GP or call NHS 111 promptly. In case of bloody diarrhoea, especially among vulnerable individuals in your group, immediate emergency medical attention should be sought..