Cryptosporidiosis
Cryptosporidium are parasites similar to coccidia parasites and can also cause diarrhea.
Alternative names: Cryptosporidium suis, Cryptosporidium parvum
Information
Cryptosporidium are intracellular parasites similar to coccidia and can also cause diarrhea, but in slightly older animals 8-21 days old. Cryptosporidium suis, Cryptosporidium pig genotype II and Cryptosporidium parvum are the most common species seen in swine. They can infect humans and are also found in other species such as rats and mice. This pathology is rare.
Symptoms
Sows and fattening stage:
- Not found.
Nursing piglets and nursery pigs:
- Not always seen.
- Diarrhea at 8 - 21 days.
- Dehydration.
- Loss of appetite.
- Weight Loss.
Causes / Contributing Factors
- Rats and mice.
- Main water source may be contaminated.
- Poor hygiene.
- Dirty pens.
Diagnosis
Fecal laboratory analysis.
Control/Prevention
There is no recognized treatment.
