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Cryptosporidium, which also called crypto, is a parasite that causes diarrhea, especially in the summer.
In addition to large outbreaks this year in Phoenix, Arizona and North Texas, there have been outbreaks in Utah (2007) and Seneca Lake State Park in New York (2005).
Unlike most other infections, children can catch crypto from contaminated water (swimming pools and water parks, etc.), even water that is properly maintained with normal levels of chlorine.
How does water get contaminated with crypto?
Kids with crypto can be contagious for up to two weeks after their diarrhea goes away. Crypto cysts can get into the water from someone who has or recently had a crypto infection, be swallowed by other children, and then grow and multiply, causing typical crypto symptoms.
Hyperchlorination of pool water can kill the crypto cysts in pool water, although kids can't swim until the chlorine levels get back to normal levels, and the water can always get contaminated again if there is a lot of crypto in the community. Although more expensive, ozone and ultraviolet light treatment of pool water can also help to keep pools clear of crypto.
Crypto Symptoms
In additon to watery diarrhea, the symptoms of crypto can come and go and include:
- Stomach cramps or pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Dehydration and weight loss
These symptoms typically begin about two to 10 days after being exposed to contaminated water and can linger for over four weeks, although most otherwise healthy kids get better in just one or two weeks.
More About Crypto
Although most kids with crypto can get better on their own, treatment with Alinia can help them get better faster.
The first step is recognizing that your child has a crypto infection, which can be easier if he has been swimming in a pool that is known to be contaminated. Next, stool tests for crypto can be done, although several tests may sometimes be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Most importantly, you should encourage your kids to not swallow pool water, since this is the main way that you can catch crypto.
To keep other people safe, it is also important to:
- frequently take your kids on bathroom breaks or check their swim diaper, being sure not to change their swim diaper at the side of the pool
- wash your child thoroughly (especially his rear end) with soap and water before he goes swimming or have him take a shower or bath
- not let your kids swim when they have diarrhea
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