Cryptosporidiosis (Cryptosporidium suis, Cryptosporidium parvum)
Cryptosporidium are parasites similar to coccidia parasites and can also cause diarrhea.
Description
Cryptosporidium are intracellular parasites similar to coccidia and can also cause diarrhea but slightly at higher ages: from 8-21 days. Cryptosporidium suis, swine Cryptosporidium 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 is a rare pathology.
Symptoms
Sows and fattening stage:
- It is not present.
Lactating and nursery piglets:
- Not always produced.
- Diarrhea at 8 - 21 days.
- Dehydration.
- Loss of appetite.
- Weight Loss.
Causes / Contributing Factors
- Rats and mice.
- The main water supply source may be contaminated.
- Poor hygiene.
- Dirty pens.
Diagnosis
It is made from fecal test in the laboratory.
Control/Prevention
There is no recognized treatment.
