Cryptosporidium infections soaring in Utah

Between July 1 and Sept. 6, Utah saw 1,049 confirmed cases of cryptosporidium — an outbreak that has prompted health officials to ban children under 5 from public swimming pools. Typically, about 30 cases are reported a year.

Officials also have called for strong warnings about personal hygiene and the dangers of swimming within two weeks of being sick with intestinal issues.

Cryptosporidium is a parasite that thrives in the intestines of animals, including humans. It is killed with super-doses of chlorine, but it's hardy, and state health officials say the public ultimately must take the precautions needed to avoid spreading it, including being scrupulous about showering before swimming. It's also important to shower after and not ingest recreational water.

The illness also can be triggered by eating unwashed fruits and vegetables that have come in contact with contaminated water, so it's important to wash all produce.

Symptoms, which can last a week or two and may be severe, include weight loss, stomach cramps or pain, fever, nausea and vomiting.

Next week, health officials expect to review the ban on young swimmers and determine whether to continue it. If the situation doesn't improve, public pools may be shut down temporarily.

More information is available online at health.utah.gov/epi.