Why Test?
Why is it important to test for Cryptosporidium?
Cryptosporidiosis (Cryptosporidium parvum) is an important protozoan disease causing diarrhoea in many domestic animals and synanthropic species e.g. hedgehogs and reptiles, as well as humans (zoonosis).
Cryptosporidium parvum also commonly causes problems in calves and, together with Rotavirus and Coronavirus, is responsible for neonatal diarrhoea which can lead to economic losses.
Cryptosporidium parvum has also been reported in dogs (particularly young dogs less than 6 months old), cats, hedgehogs and exotics – especially those which are under stress or immuno-compromised.
Why is it important to test for Giardia?
Giardia is highly infectious and is transmitted by direct contact
(Only five to seven cysts are enough to cause the infection)
- Contaminated food
- Contaminated water
- Contaminated objects
- Grooming and vectors such as flies
