Centers for Disease Control and Prevention photo
The Northern Kentucky Health Department has issued a public health advisory after detecting an outbreak of Cryptosporidium, often shortened to Crypto, a fecal-borne intestinal parasite.
The advisory states that at least some of the cases were detected in connection with a local public pool. A representative from the Health Department confirmed that the pool in question was the Silverlake water park in Erlanger. About dozen cases have been confirmed and numerous probable cases have been identified.
“Crypto is a gastrointestinal illness caused by the Cryptosporidium parasite and causing symptoms such as watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, low-grade fever, vomiting and nausea,” the advisory reads. “These conditions can lead to dehydration and similar concerns. However, an individual’s symptoms can vary and some may not show any symptoms. Young children and people immunologically suppressed are at increased risk for more severe illness. The incubation period for Crypto is from 2 to 10 days, with most developing symptoms in 7 days from time of exposure. In otherwise healthy individuals, symptoms usually subside within a couple of weeks with supportive care to treat the symptoms and avoid dehydration. Crypto can be shed (transmitted) for two weeks or more after symptoms subside.”
Infected animals and human carriers shed the parasite through their feces. Exposure to contaminated water, soil or food can lead to infection. The parasite is resistant to the chlorine treatments commonly used in public pools as well hand sanitizer and rubbing alcohol.
People with confirmed infections should avoid using public pools and similar facilities for two weeks after their symptoms subside as they can still transmit the parasite during that time. Babies who have not been potty trained should also refrain from swimming in public pools.
The health department stated that the outbreak could have started as far back as June. The number of detected cases is expected to grow.
Anyone with symptoms should contact their doctor immediately.
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