The outbreak of cryptosporidiosis or “crypto” continues as many kids are returning or getting ready to go back to school. Iowa State medical director, Dr.Patti Quinlisk says they believe the cases of the disease will soon ease up.
Swimming pools generally close for the summer season on the Labor Day weekend. Crypto is caused by a parasite that lives in the intestines of humans and animals and is spread in feces. Dr. Quinlisk says the best way to stop it is to cut off the source. She says it won’t help if kids aren’t following the proper technique for handwashing.
Well over 300 cases of crypto have been reported so far this year when there were a total of 328 all of last year. Polk County reported 170 cases through early July alone. Crypto can lead to diarrhea, sometimes accompanied by nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps and low grade fever.