Frequency of Cryptosporidium spp. as cause of human gastrointestinal disease in Switzerland and possible sources of infection
Baumgartner, A.; Marder, H.P.; Munzinger, J.; Siegrist, H.H.
Schweizerische Medizinische Wochenschrift 130(36): 1252-1258
2000
ISSN/ISBN: 0036-7672 PMID: 11028268 Document Number: 518829
A study was conducted to estimate the frequency of cryptosporidiosis and to determine the possible risk factors and sources of infection in Switzerland. Faecal samples from 5179 hospitalized and 1256 ambulatory patients with suspected gastrointestinal infections were screened for Cryptosporidium over a period of one year . 13 patients (0.2%) were positive for Cryptosporidium parvum. In addition, 340 cases of cryptosporidiosis were expected to occur annually with an estimated morbidity of 4.85 cases per 100 000 persons. The available data did not allow for a solid statistical conclusion with regard to risk factors. However, known risk factors such as immunosuppression, foreign travel (33.3%) and contact with symptomatic persons were demonstrated. Oysters, raw milk and cream from raw milk were strongly considered as vehicles of transmission. Polluted tap water was also considered as a relevant source of sporadic infections. The data indicate that cryptosporidiosis is a disease of low epidemiological significance in Switzerland. Cryptosporidiosis could be prevented by observing personal hygiene, avoiding certain raw foodstuffs and being aware of safe food preparation practices while travelling abroad.