1. A genus of parasitic protozoans that cause diarrheal disease in humans and animals, transmitted through contaminated water or food.
Usage: plural form; singular is cryptosporidium; medical/scientific term; commonly used in public health contexts

Examples

• The outbreak of cryptosporidia in the municipal water supply affected thousands of residents.
• Cryptosporidia are particularly dangerous for immunocompromised individuals.
• Water treatment facilities test for cryptosporidia to ensure public safety.
• The infection caused by cryptosporidia typically results in severe watery diarrhea.
• Livestock can harbor cryptosporidia and transmit them to humans through contaminated produce.
• Cryptosporidia oocysts are resistant to chlorine disinfection in water treatment.