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Studying Cryptosporidium Infection in 3D Tissue-derived Human Organoid Culture Systems by Microinjection
Published on: September 14, 2019
Cryptosporidium surveillance and risk factors in the United States
Jonathan S Yoder1, Michael J Beach
1Division of Parasitic Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Department of Health and Human Services, Atlanta, GA, USA. jyoder@cdc.gov
Abstract:
Surveillance for Cryptosporidium in the United States indicates that the reported incidence of infection has increased dramatically since 2004. The reasons for this increase are unclear but might be caused by an actual increase in incidence, improved surveillance, improved awareness about cryptosporidiosis, and/or increases in testing practices resulting from the licensing of the first-ever treatment for cryptosporidiosis. While regional differences remain, the incidence of cryptosporidiosis appears to be increasing across the United States. Onset of illness is most common during the summer, particularly among younger children. Cryptosporidiosis case reporting also influences outbreak detection and reporting; the recent rise in cases coincides with an increase in the number of reported cryptosporidiosis outbreaks, particularly in treated recreational water venues. Risk factors include ingesting contaminated recreational or drinking water, exposure to infected animals, having close contacts with cryptosporidiosis, travel to disease-endemic areas, and ingestion of contaminated food. Advances in molecular characterization of clinical specimens have improved our understanding of the changing epidemiology and risk factors. Prevention and control of cryptosporidiosis requires continued efforts to interrupt the transmission of Cryptosporidium through water, food, and contact with infected persons or animals. Of particular importance is continued improvement and monitoring of drinking water treatment and advances in the design, operation, and management of recreational water venues coupled with behavioral changes among the swimming public.
Insights
Cryptosporidium infections have significantly increased in the U.S. since 2004, with outbreaks often linked to recreational water. Public health efforts are crucial for prevention and control.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Reported Cryptosporidium infection incidence in the U.S. has risen dramatically since 2004.
- Reasons for the increase are multifactorial, including potential actual incidence rise, improved surveillance, and increased testing due to new treatments.
- Cryptosporidiosis cases and outbreaks, especially in recreational water, are increasing nationwide.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the trends and contributing factors of increasing Cryptosporidium infections in the U.S.
- To identify key risk factors and transmission routes associated with cryptosporidiosis.
- To inform public health strategies for prevention and control.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of national surveillance data for Cryptosporidium infections and outbreaks.
- Review of potential contributing factors such as surveillance improvements and treatment availability.
- Examination of epidemiological data, including seasonality, age groups, and risk factors.
- Consideration of molecular characterization of clinical specimens.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in reported Cryptosporidium incidence and outbreaks since 2004 across the U.S.
- Summer seasonality and higher incidence among younger children.
- Recreational water venues identified as a major source of outbreaks.
- Key risk factors include contaminated water (recreational and drinking), animal contact, and close contact with infected individuals.
Conclusions:
- Continued improvement in drinking water treatment and recreational water venue management is essential.
- Enhanced public awareness and behavioral changes among swimmers are critical for reducing transmission.
- Ongoing surveillance and molecular characterization are vital for understanding and controlling Cryptosporidium infections.
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