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==Overview==
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== Introduction ==
This is a '''zoonotic''', diarrhoea-causing, disease of cattle and other domestic livestock caused by the parasite ''[[Cryptosporidium]]''. It is a [[:Category:Protozoa|protozoan parasite]] that inhabits crypt cells of the intestine. Transmission of the disease is faeco-oral. The disease is severe in humans and can be fatal in the immunocompromised. It causes severe sickness and diarrhoea for up to two weeks.
== Clinical Signs ==
Often seen in adolescent calves, may present as a sudden outbreak or as sporadic disease. Animals may have weight loss and appear dull and depressed. Diarrhoea will be profuse and watery and may appear green/black.
== Diagnosis ==
Clinical signs and age of cattle will provide a presumptive diagnosis. A faecal smear with '''Ziehl-Neelson''' (ZN) stain is diagnostic and if ''Cryptosporidium'' is present then oocysts stain red against a blue/green background. Immunoassays can also be performed to detect oocysts in faeces.
== Control ==
Isolate/quarantine bought-in calves maintain good hygiene by providing adequate bedding and disinfecting calf pens.
If diarrhoea is present and ''Cryptosporidium'' has been detected then treat with halofuginon. This treatment is given orally.
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[[Category:Intestinal Diseases - Cattle]]
[[Category:Expert_Review - Farm Animal]]
[[Category:Zoonoses]]