Present and Future Control of Cryptosporidiosis in Cattle

Abstract

Cryptosporidiosis continues to be a problem for dairy calves and a perplexing public health risk, despite recent advances in molecular biology that have contributed to our knowledge of the pathobiology of the causative organism. Cryptosporidium infects at least 155 mammals, including humans and dairy cattle, primarily resulting in diarrhea. Unfortunately, the somewhat unique lifecycle of this protozoan and the armor of its oocysts leaves us little defense. This paper reviews aspects of transmission, disinfection, treatment, prophylaxis, nomenclature, and zoonotic concerns of cryptosporidium.