Public Health physicians warn swimmers to steer clear of public pools for two weeks after crypto symptoms subside

Public health authorities are urging people who have been unwell with diarrhoea to avoid swimming pools for at least two weeks after they recover, following a sharp increase in cryptosporidiosis cases in NSW.

In the Hunter New England District, there have been 118 cases so far this year, compared to just 50 over the same period last year, but less than the 136 cases recorded in 2013.

Dr David Durrheim, Hunter New England Health public health physician, said there was a seasonal spike every year which coincided with the onset of warmer weather.

‘’Across the state the numbers are generally higher than last year,’’ he said.

Jeremy McAnulty, Director of Health Protection at NSW Health, warned in a statement this week that swimming pools were at risk of being contaminated by infectious swimmers.

Outbreaks of cryptosporidiosis linked to pools have occurred several times in NSW in recent years, with the biggest outbreak in 1998, when more than 1,000 cases were confirmed, he said.

“Cryptosporidiosis is caused by a parasitic infection of the intestine that is easily spread in swimming pools and person to person or, less commonly, via drinking contaminated water or touching animals,” said Dr McAnulty.

“There is no specific treatment for the condition and symptoms may last a few weeks in some people,” he said.

To avoid getting infected with the parasite:

• Always wash your hands thoroughly for at least 10 seconds with soap and running water after using the toilet, changing nappies, or handling animals;

•  Avoid swallowing or putting pool or spa water in your mouth; and

• Don’t drink untreated water, e.g. when camping or bush walking - bringing water to a rolling boil will kill these parasites.