A review of the biology and epidemiology of cryptosporidiosis in humans and animals.
The epidemiology of cryptosporidiosis, an infection caused by several genotypically and phenotypically diverse Cryptosporidium species, has been dynamically changing over the past decade from that of a rare, largely asymptomatic infection to an acute enteric disease of animals and humans. In this review, the current understanding of factors (biology and epidemiology) contributing to the emergence of cryptosporidiosis in animals, including parasite biology, genetic diversity, environmental spread, livestock production trends, presence of the parasite in livestock and companion animals, and potential risk of transmission from animals to humans is highlighted. Potential control measures and the role of veterinary and medical professionals in the prevention of cryptosporidiosis are also discussed.
Ramirez
Norma E
NE
Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Food Animal Health Research Program, Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, FAHRP Building, 1680 Madison Avenue, Wooster, OH 44691, USA.
Ward
Lucy A
LA
Sreevatsan
Srinand
S
D000818:Animals; D003457:Cryptosporidiosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000469:parasitology / Q000662:veterinary; D003458:Cryptosporidium / Q000145:classification / Q000187:drug effects / Q000302:isolation & purification / Q000502:physiology*; D003967:Diarrhea / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000469:parasitology; D004196:Disease Outbreaks; D006801:Humans; D014867:Water / Q000469:parasitology
D014867:Water