[Cryptosporidium and wildlife: a risk for humans?].

The present review underlines the knowledge of Cryptosporidium, especially its biodiversity and transmission. The presence of the parasite in different mammal host species is discussed with real, potential risk of transmission to humans. The potential role of insects in mechanical transmission of the parasite is evaluated by experimental protocols. The cost of cryptosporidiosis at health and economic levels are mentioned, which emphasises the importance of detection and identification of the parasite in the environment and in wild mammal species, using specific molecular tools. Potential measures to be accomplished in order to fight off cryptosporidiosis are also noted.