Rural firefighters at risk for parasite ATLANTA, March 9 (UPI) -- U.S. health officials say they have detected Cryptosporidiosis, a parasite that causes diarrhea, an occupational hazard for firefighters. A report published in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report said this is the first time health officials found Cryptosporidiosis, a potential occupational hazard for rural firefighters. "Cryptosporidiosis has been implicated in outbreaks involving recreational water use, contaminated municipal water, and exposure to infected animals," the report said. Twenty of 34 firefighters responding to a fire in a barn housing week-old calves became ill with gastrointestinal symptoms; three of six tested were positive for Cryptosporidium. Cryptosporidium parvum was identified in samples from two of the firefighters, the calves, and a nearby swimming pond. Firefighters, like other visitors to facilities housing livestock, are at potential risk for Cryptosporidium infection, CDC officials said. "Continued public education regarding Cryptosporidiosis prevention and control, in particular the importance of minimizing contact with animal feces, practicing thorough hygiene, and not drinking from untreated water sources, is important," the report concluded.