Symptoms can last for weeks
The bug found in Northamptonshire tap water can cause "watery diarrhoea" and last for a month, according to the Health Protection Agency.
Cryptosporidium is a protozoan parasite (a tiny organism) that causes an infection called cryptosporidiosis affecting people and cattle.
The most common symptom is watery diarrhoea, which can range from mild to severe, the agency said.
A spokesman said: "People with weak immune systems are likely to be most seriously affected. There is no specific treatment for cryptosporidiosis. Most people with a healthy immune system will recover within one month. It is important to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration."
"Cryptosporidium is found in soil, food, water, or surfaces that have been contaminated with infected human or animal faeces.
Transmission occurs through animal-to-human or human-to-human contact.
"People may also be infected by consuming contaminated water or food, or by swimming in contaminated water."
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Wednesday 08 February 2012
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