Cryptosporidiosis is the worldwide zoonotic disease caused by protozoan parasite of the genus Cryptosporidium which infects the micro-villous border of the gastrointestinal and respiratory epithelium of wide range of vertebrates including human beings and causing diarrhea in both immune-competent and immune-compromised individuals. It follows monoxenous life cycle which requires single host and grow only in living cells but can survive in the environment for long periods without losing its infectivity. Its transmission occurs through direct or indirect contact with feces of infected animals or humans whereas a contaminated food and water are source infection. Age, immune status, concurrent infection and resistance of the parasite to adverse environmental factors are the risk to factors associated with cryptosporidium infection. It's diagnosis of is mainly based on identification of oocysts from fecal materials while species identification rely on molecular techniques. Cryptosporidium causes high morbidity which results in production losses and death of live animals in the different countries of the world. Additionally, it accounts for up to 20% of all cases of childhood diarrhea in developing countries. Furthermore, it is a potentially fatal complication of AIDS. Since, it's highly resistance to antimicrobials and anticoccidials no effective therapeutic agent is available to date. Nevertheless, halofuginone lactate and nitazoxanide are being used for pro and metaphylaxis treatment. As a result, good hygiene measures are important to control and prevent the disease. Moreover, comprehensive documented materials on cryptosporidium and its public health importance are scarce. Therefore, well compiled papers are needed for better understanding, effective treatment and implementation of sound prevention and control measures.