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Cryptosporidium in humans and animals-a one health approach to prophylaxis
U Ryan1, A Zahedi2, A Paparini2
1School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia. Una.Ryan@murdoch.edu.au.
Abstract:
Cryptosporidium is a major cause of moderate-to-severe diarrhoea in humans worldwide, second only to rotavirus. Due to the wide host range and environmental persistence of this parasite, cryptosporidiosis can be zoonotic and associated with foodborne and waterborne outbreaks. Currently, 31 species are recognized as valid, and of these, Cryptosporidium hominis and Cryptosporidium parvum are responsible for the majority of infections in humans. The immune status of the host, both innate and adaptive immunity, has a major impact on the severity of the disease and its prognosis. Immunocompetent individuals typically experience self-limiting diarrhoea and transient gastroenteritis lasting up to 2 weeks and recover without treatment, suggesting an efficient host antiparasite immune response. Immunocompromised individuals can suffer from intractable diarrhoea, which can be fatal. Effective drug treatments and vaccines are not yet available. As a result of this, the close cooperation and interaction between veterinarians, health physicians, environmental managers and public health operators is essential to properly control this disease. This review focuses on a One Health approach to prophylaxis, including the importance of understanding transmission routes for zoonotic Cryptosporidium species, improved sanitation and better risk management, improved detection, diagnosis and treatment and the prospect of an effective anticryptosporidial vaccine.
Insights
Cryptosporidium causes severe diarrhea globally, with zoonotic potential. A One Health approach integrating veterinary, medical, and environmental efforts is crucial for controlling this parasitic infection due to a lack of vaccines and treatments.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Public Health
- Immunology
- One Health
Background:
- Cryptosporidium is a leading cause of human diarrhea worldwide, second to rotavirus.
- Zoonotic transmission and environmental persistence contribute to foodborne and waterborne outbreaks.
- Cryptosporidium hominis and Cryptosporidium parvum are the primary species causing human infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the One Health approach for cryptosporidiosis prophylaxis.
- To highlight the importance of understanding zoonotic transmission routes.
- To discuss improvements in sanitation, risk management, diagnosis, treatment, and vaccine development.
Main Methods:
- This is a review article, synthesizing existing knowledge on Cryptosporidium.
- Focuses on a One Health framework for disease control.
- Examines aspects of transmission, host immunity, and therapeutic/prophylactic strategies.
Main Results:
- Host immune status significantly impacts cryptosporidiosis severity, from self-limiting in immunocompetent individuals to fatal in immunocompromised ones.
- Effective drugs and vaccines are currently unavailable.
- Cross-disciplinary collaboration is essential for effective disease control.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive One Health strategy is vital for controlling zoonotic Cryptosporidium.
- Key elements include understanding transmission, enhancing sanitation and risk management, and improving diagnostics and treatments.
- The development of an effective anticryptosporidial vaccine remains a critical future goal.
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