A genus of coccidian parasites of the family Cryptosporidiidae, found in the intestinal epithelium of many vertebrates including humans.
A parasite which contaminates drinking water supplies, causing intestinal infection.
A microscopic parasite that lives in the intestines of humans and animals and causes cryptosporidiosis. Cryptosporidium is carried in animals without symptoms, particularly in cattle, deer, and sheep. The parasite can survive outside the body in feces for prolonged periods. It causes infection when it contaminates food and water. Cryptosporidium is resistant to chlorine disinfection.
A genus of protozoa in the kingdom Protista classed as a coccidian parasite. It is an important cause of diarrhea, especially in immunocompromised patients, but may cause large outbreaks in the general population when it contaminates supplies of drinking water.