When do I need cryptosporidia protection?
Because crypto is carried by both animals and humans, it is found in most surface water sources. Level of contamination can be gauged by the surrounding influences. For example, water sources downstream from an agricultural operation will most likely contain a much higher level of crypto, while high-mountain streams with little animal influence will contain a much lower level. The best indicator is waste influence from humans and/or animals. (A lake with a huge population of geese will pose a higher risk than one without.) Susceptibility is also a very important consideration. Infants and young children, elderly, and pregnant and immunocompromised individuals are at greater risk of contracting serious waterborne disease and should purify their water for the highest level of protection. Purification is also best for people who tend to have a sensitive digestive system or gastrointestinal problems, such as a tendency to get food poisoning. Healthy adults who rarely get sick and claim to
