By Alex Smith

A disease caused by swimming pool parasites has been diagnosed in some Johnson County, Kansas residents and led to the temporary closure of a pool in Overland Park.

Cryptosporidiosus, or crypto, is spread by contact with waste, contaminated food or water,or infected people. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, nausea and vomiting.

“At this time, we have three confirmed cases and are tracking a few more possible cases in the community,” said Lougene Marsh, director of the Johnson County Department of Health and the Environment, in a press release.

The Johnson County health department says the affected home owner’s association pool, has been temporarily closed, and the city of Shawnee is treating its pools to eliminate any potential danger.

Crypto symptoms usually develop two to 10 days after exposure and many last 1-2 weeks.

Health officials advise residents to wash their hands. Alcohol-based hand gels do not stop the spread of crypto. Crypto is also resistant to chlorine.

Parents are advised to make sure children take frequent swim breaks to avoid contaminating pools.

 

Alex Smith is a reporter for Heartland Health Monitor, a news collaboration focusing on health issues and their impact in Missouri and Kansas.