Information for Travelers

While cryptosporidiosis (Crypto) infections occur worldwide, travelers to lower-income countries may be at greater risk because of the water treatment and food sanitation practices in those places.

Food and drinks—particularly raw fruits and vegetables, tap water, ice made from tap water, unpasteurized milk or dairy products, and items purchased from street vendors—might be contaminated with Crypto. Steaming-hot foods, fruits you peel yourself, bottled and canned processed drinks, and hot coffee or tea are more likely to be safe.

Visitors should avoid swallowing water when swimming in lakes, rivers, or pools, and when using hot tubs. Several outbreaks of Crypto have been traced to swallowing contaminated water while swimming. Crypto can stay alive in chlorinated aquatics venues (for example, swimming pools and water parks) and in salt water (like the ocean) for several days.