EEIP RIDRM Cryptosporidiosis
Cryptosporidiosis is a diarrheal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cryptosporidium. The parasite has a protective shell that helps it survive outside the body for long periods of time. The shell also prevents the penetration of disinfectants. In the United States, Cryptosporidium is a leading cause of waterborne disease in humans.
Actions Required and Control Measures
Reporting Requirements - Category 2
Cryptosporidiosis is physician reportable by mail within 12 hours of recognition or strong suspicion to both the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) and the local health department (LHD). The director of any clinical laboratory must also report laboratory evidence of Cryptosporidium to both the DPH and the LHD. To assure you have the most up-to-date information concerning reportable diseases, please visit the Reporting of Diseases, Emergency Illnesses, Health Conditions, and Laboratory Findings page.
National Surveillance Case Definitions
Case Investigation
LHD Responsibility: Using the “General Enteric Diseases Interview Form” (GEDIF) specific to Cryptosporidium, interview case and identify individuals in high-risk occupations or settings. Completed GEDIF forms should be entered directly into CTEDSS or faxed to the DPH at 860-509-7910.
Provide information and educational materials describing the nature of the disease and preventive measures. The importance of frequent and thorough hand hygiene should be stressed for all cases and contacts. Encourage a physician visit if symptoms persist.
DPH Responsibility: DPH is available to the LHD for assistance, consultation and guidance, and to ensure that appropriate investigative and control actions are being taken.
Control Measures
Food Handler: Refer to DPH Food Protection Program at 860-509-7297.
Health Care Worker with Direct Patient Contact: Individuals with laboratory-confirmed infection should be excluded from direct care of patients until they are asymptomatic. Proper hand hygiene should be stressed.
Day Care Setting: Children or staff with laboratory-confirmed infections should be excluded until no longer symptomatic. Improved sanitation and personal hygiene should be emphasized. Proper hand hygiene by staff and children should be stressed, especially after using the toilet or handling soiled diapers.
Household Contacts: Household contacts with diarrhea should be evaluated and tested for cryptosporidiosis and excluded from food handling and the care of children and/or patients until asymptomatic. Proper hand washing should be stressed.
This page last updated 11/9/2022.