Cryptosporidium parvum: The Hidden Gut Parasite
- Jul 13
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 30

Cryptosporidium parvum is a microscopic protozoan parasite that causes cryptosporidiosis, a diarrheal disease that affects both humans and animals. It is highly contagious and spreads through contaminated water, food, surfaces, and contact with infected individuals or animals.
Where It Lives in the Body
Cryptosporidium primarily infects the small intestine. It invades the lining of the gut, leading to inflammation and disruption of normal digestive function.
Symptoms
In immunocompromised individuals, symptoms can be severe and chronic, even life-threatening.



