Final answer:
Symptoms of Cryptosporidium parvum include diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever, appearing one to three weeks after exposure. While symptoms usually resolve within weeks, they can be severe in immunocompromised individuals.
Step-by-step explanation:
Signs of Cryptosporidium parvum, the parasite causing cryptosporidiosis, vary and can range from nonexistent to severe. Typical symptoms include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, fever, and weight loss. These symptoms usually manifest one to three weeks after exposure and tend to be self-limiting, generally clearing within two to six weeks. However, in immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS, the infection can be severe and potentially life-threatening. Diagnoses are typically made through stool exams and various immunoassays, with metronidazole being a common treatment.