PHOENIX , Aug. 21 (UPI) — A highly contagious parasite has infected and sickened over 100 people in Maricopa County, Ariz., swimming pools since August 4, officials said.
The microscopic parasite cryptosporidium, or “Crypto,” was first discovered on August 4 and was found in at least 20 public pools. The infection, induced by ingesting pool water, causes stomach cramps, vomiting and fever, and lasts one to two weeks. It spreads in water contaminated with human fecal material, and is not always killed by chlorine in the water.
Officials did not identify which Phoenix-area pools were infected.
The Maricopa County Department of Public Health advised “that any facility in which an infected person swam prior to illness or while sick be treated for Crypto. MCESD is notifying the facilities that are affected and recommending that CDC [Centers for Disease Control] guidelines for decontamination are being followed.”
Dr. Rebecca Sunenshine of the MCDPH added in a statement, “Right now, this outbreak is community-wide and there is an increased risk to those swimming at recreational water facilities. The most important thing the public can do to prevent spread of this disease is to stay out of the water if you have diarrhea, until at least two weeks after symptoms resolve.”
Pool users are encouraged to take frequent restroom breaks when out of the pool, avoid drinking pool water and to thoroughly wash their hands with soap and water.
