Government health bosses said ‘anyone can catch it’ but that there are steps we can take to avoid the bug
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a warning about an “unpleasant and sometimes dangerous” illness. In a recent post on X, formerly Twitter, on Wednesday, government health chiefs shared some crucial advice.
They warned: “Cryptosporidium is a microscopic parasite that can cause an unpleasant – and sometimes dangerous – illness called cryptosporidiosis. Read our guide to how to avoid #Crypto and what to do if you catch it”. The linked article explains further, warning that “unfortunately, anyone can catch cryptosporidium”.
However, it also notes the infection is “particularly common in children between 1 and 5 years old”, and highlights that “other groups at high risk of catching the bug include people working with farm animals or contaminated water, those changing nappies, or travelling to countries with poor sanitation. It can cause serious illness in those of any age with weakened immune systems.”
This nasty bug originates from a parasite found in the intestines of humans and animals who are infected, which is then excreted and can pollute water sources like lakes and swimming pools, as well as food items such as raw milk and vegetables. The UKHSA lists symptoms including intense watery diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach cramps, nausea, fever, and loss of appetite.
The illness typically persists for about two weeks, and patients may feel they’re getting better only to have symptoms crop up again before a full recovery is made. Health chiefs have reassured the public that there are several measures that can be taken to prevent cryptosporidiosis.
These include frequent hand washing with soap and warm water, particularly after using the toilet or interacting with pets or other animals, and before eating. It’s also advised to thoroughly wash and peel all fruits and vegetables, and to avoid consuming untreated water or swallowing water from pools or lakes.
The only definitive way to determine if you have the illness is through medical testing.