Cryptosporidium parvum: Is it Invincible?

Authors

Caitlin Wonnacott, Mississippi State University

Abstract

Cryptosporidium is a coccidian protozoan parasite that can affect mammals, reptiles, and birds. A coccidian is a single-celled protozoan that affects the epithelial lining of the intestinal walls of hosts it parasitizes. This parasite has a unique life cycle and can withstand common measures of sterilization. The infective oocyte stage is resistant and hardy. It takes on two forms where each goes to different places within the host. Contamination of water sources has led to large outbreaks of cryptosporidiosis, even though the water met and passed the standards for drinking water. Conclusions from previous studies will help lead the way for new questions to emerge and addressed. This small organism defies simple preventative measures and is increasingly being diagnosed and treated.

Recommended Citation

Wonnacott, Caitlin (2016) "Cryptosporidium parvum: Is it Invincible?," Midsouth Entomologist: Vol. 9: No. 1, Article 7.
Available at: https://scholarsjunction.msstate.edu/midsouthent/vol9/iss1/7