Crypto
Download more information about recreational water-borne illnesses.
What is Crypto?
Crypto is a germ that causes diarrhea. Crypto, short for Cryptosporidium, is found in infected people's stool and cannot be seen by the naked eye. This germ is protected by an outer shell that allows it to survive for long periods of time and makes it resistant to chlorine disinfection found in pools.
Why should I be concerned about Crypto?
During the past two decades, Crypto has become recognized as one of the most common causes of waterborne illness in the United States. The germ is found in every part of the United States and the world.
How is Crypto spread at aquatic facilities?
Crypto is not spread by contact with blood. Crypto can be spread:
- By swallowing recreational water contaminated with Crypto. Recreational water is water from swimming pools, hot tubs, jacuzzis, fountains, lakes, rivers, springs, ponds, or streams that can be contaminated with sewage or feces from humans or animals.
- By putting something in your mouth or accidentally swallowing something that has come in contact with the stool of a person or animal infected with Crypto.
- By swallowing Crypto picked up from surfaces (such as lounge chairs, picnic tables, bathroom fixtures, changing tables) contaminated with stool from an infected person.
What is the CAC doing in response to the recent Crypto outbreak?
The CAC is taking precautions against the illness by following CDC, state and local health department guidelines. While it’s true the illness is resistant to chlorine at lower levels, large doses of chlorine do kill crypto. Since the initial outbreak occurred, the CAC pools have been hyper- chlorinating weekly.
Content: CDC, Divison of Parasitic Diseases
