CDC Warns of Parasite Cryptosporidium

The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a report this week, which noted an increase in parasitic outbreaks related to treated swimming pools and hot tubs. The hardy parasite found in fecal matter, cryptosporidium, causes severe cases of diarrhea. Since the CDC first reported an outbreak in 1988, the number of cases has dramatically increased. The CDC s urging swimming and hot tub facilities to consider the installation of ultraviolet lights, ozone, or other supplemental disinfectant system to kill germs and parasites like cryptosporidium. Given many families frequent public pools and hot tubs during the summer months, the CDC offers these suggestions to keep you happy and healthy:

• Stay out of the water if you have diarrhea.
• Always shower with soap before you get in the water.
• Don’t pee or poop in the water.
• Don’t swallow the water.