Treating Crypto | Cryptosporidium (“Crypto”)
Treatment overview
Cryptosporidiosis is caused by the germ Cryptosporidium. The most common symptom of cryptosporidiosis is diarrhea lasting from days to weeks. Cryptosporidiosis can be managed by drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Young children and pregnant women might be more susceptible to dehydration and should drink plenty of fluids while ill. Most people who have healthy immune systems will recover from cryptosporidiosis without treatment.
Rapid loss of fluids from diarrhea can be especially life threatening to children less than one year old. Parents and other primary caregivers should talk to their infant’s healthcare provider about fluid replacement therapy options.
