07/21/2026
🦠Know the Facts About Cryptosporidiosis (Crypto)
The New York State Department of Health is reminding New Yorkers to take steps to prevent cryptosporidiosis (Crypto), an intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite known as Cyclospora. Crypto is one of the leading causes of waterborne illness in the United States and can spread easily through contaminated water, food, infected people, or infected animals. It can even survive in properly chlorinated swimming pools for long periods of time.
‼️ Symptoms may include:
• Watery diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fever
• Dehydration
Symptoms usually begin 2 to10 days after exposure and often last 1 to 2 weeks.
🛡️ Protect yourself and others by:
• Thoroughly washing all fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
• Cook your food when you can. Heating food to 158°F (70°C) or higher kills Cyclospora.
• Washing your hands with soap and water—alcohol-based hand sanitizer does not effectively kill Crypto.
• Avoiding swallowing water while swimming in pools, lakes, rivers, or splash areas.
• Drinking safe, treated water when camping or hiking.
• If you have diarrhea, stay out of pools for 2 weeks after your symptoms have completely stopped to help prevent spreading the parasite.
Anyone can get Crypto, but young children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to become seriously ill. If you have severe diarrhea, signs of dehydration, or symptoms that do not improve, contact your healthcare provider.
Learn more from the New York State Department of Health: https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/cryptosporidiosis/fact_sheet.htm
