Brits are being warned of a disgusting disease that “can last around two weeks”. Cryptosporidium is a microscopic parasite that can cause an unpleasant – and sometimes dangerous – illness called cryptosporidiosis.

Unfortunately, anyone can catch it. However, there are a few groups of people who are at greater risk than most including anyone who may be changing nappies or travelling to countries with poor sanitation.

It can also cause serious illness in those of any age with weakened immune systems. Children between the ages of one and five, and people working with farm animals, and contaminated water sources, were also highlighted as an at-risk group.

This comes as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued a warning to anyone planning a half-term trip to a farm. Whilst generally safe, there is some guidance that parents should be aware of when taking their children to farms and petting zoos.

Symptoms usually appear up to 12 days after infection. In most cases, the illness can last for about one to two weeks.

People with healthy immune systems usually have mild or asymptomatic infections, whilst people with weakened immune systems are more likely to have severe and prolonged infections. Some of the warning signs include:

Touching infected faeces and then putting your unwashed hands near your mouth is a common way of catching cryptosporidiosis. You can also get it by swallowing contaminated water while swimming or drinking untreated water.

Sometimes contaminated food like unwashed vegetables or raw milk can pass on the parasite, too. The good news is that cryptosporidiosis is preventable by following some simple hygiene steps:

Hand gels or wipes are not a substitute for washing your hands after visiting a farm due to the types of germs you might be exposed to. Washing your hands thoroughly with liquid soap and warm running water as soon as you finish your visit will reduce the risk of infection.

If you or anyone in your group feels unwell or has any symptoms such as diarrhoea or vomiting within two weeks of visiting a farm, contact your GP or call NHS 111 as soon as possible. If you or anyone in your group – particularly if they fall into a vulnerable group – has bloody diarrhoea, seek immediate emergency medical attention.

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