Question: How can my family avoid swimming-related illnesses this summer?

Answer: Anyone may become ill from swimming-related illnesses; however, children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems are most at risk.  One of the most common causes of waterborne disease is Cryptosporidiosis or Crypto.  Crypto is a gastrointestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cryptosporidium.  The parasite lives in the intestine of infected humans and animals.  Cryptosporidium cannot be eliminated by using chlorination and other methods of water purification.  Crypto has also been responsible for outbreaks in child care settings, foodborne illness outbreaks associated with contaminated foods or ill food handlers, and through contact with livestock or animals at petting zoos.  Over 800,000 cases occur in the United States each year. 

Most people acquire Crypto after accidentally swallowing water that contains Cryptosporidium such as public pools or swimming areas.  The parasite reproduces in the digestive system and causes watery diarrhea and other stomach issues such as cramping, nausea, and vomiting.  Symptoms of Crypto may begin two to ten days after becoming infected with the parasite.  In persons with healthy immune systems, symptoms usually last about one to two weeks.  Some people with Crypto will have no symptoms at all.  People with weakened immune systems may be very ill for a much longer period of time and have serious complications such as dehydration.  

The best way to prevent becoming ill from Crypto is to practice good personal hygiene with soap and water, particularly after using the bathroom, changing diapers, handling household or farm animals, working in soil, and before handling food.  Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not effective against Cryptosporidium species.  When cleaning items and surfaces, no disinfectant is guaranteed to be completely effective against Crypto; however, hydrogen peroxide is more effective than standard bleach solutions.  Do not drink untreated water or use contaminated water to wash fruits or vegetables.  Do not drink or eat any unpasteurized milk, dairy products, juice, or cider.  Take extra precautions when traveling and do not use or drink inadequately treated water or ice.  To avoid spreading the disease, do not swim until two weeks after diarrhea has ceased.  If immunocompromised, avoid contact with farm animals.  

A number of other illness-causing germs may also be present in swimming pools, hot tubs, lakes, and rivers, including Giardia, Shigella, and norovirus.  It is important to avoid swallowing even small amounts of water containing these parasites and viruses.  The symptoms are very similar to Crypto and include diarrhea, cramping, and nausea.  To avoid spreading such diseases, those who are experiencing stomach issues should avoid participating in water-based activities until the symptoms cease.

For those with a healthy immune system, Crypto and other waterborne illnesses typically resolve in two to three weeks.  It is important to drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated.  A healthcare provider may recommend over-the-counter antidiarrheal medications to alleviate symptoms.  In some cases, a prescription medication may be required.  These medications assist in preventing dehydration and mineral loss.  In severe cases, intravenous fluids may be needed to prevent or treat dehydration.  Contact a healthcare provider if bouts of watery diarrhea occur several times per day, if symptoms return or worsen, or severe dehydration symptoms such as confusion, light-headedness or dizziness, and difficulty urinating occurs.  Those with a weakened immune system who experience any infectious disease symptoms should see a healthcare professional immediately.