Crypto Outbreak Prevention

Oct 4, 2013 9:14 PM

Jason Williams

ThisAprilmarked 20 years since the massive outbreak of the virus known as Cryptosporidium in Milwaukee affected nearly 400,000 residents and visitors. Crypto, according to the CDC, is a waterborne virus most often found in recreational areas such as pools, hot tubs, streams and the waters surrounding beach areas that could be contaminated with sewage or feces. It is transmitted by ingestion of water contaminated with the germ. Those infected can experience diarrheal effects for up to two weeks.

Last week, the North Shore Health Department reported eight cases in both adults and children in Bayside, Fox Point and Whitefish Bay, with the possibility of twelve more. The reported cases involved infected water from Lake Michigan.

Julie Pinney works in Infection Prevention at Ministry Door County Medical Center, and she says an outbreak, even on the small scale Milwaukee experienced last week could happen on the Door Peninsula.

Even in pools or hot tubs, properly treated with chlorine, the germ Cryptosporidiosis, can survive for days. In an area surrounded by water, most of which is untreated, this virus has the potential to thrive. Pinney says that this should not discourage people from enjoying outdoor activities or the lifestyles so many of us have come to love. She offers a tip to protect your family.

Though anyone can catch the virus, the CDC cites young children, pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems as the most susceptible. After ingesting the germ, it can take 2-10 days to begin experiencing the symptoms of infection.

The good news. It is a treatable illness. If you experience diarrhea for more than a few days, Pinney urges you to seek medical attention.

More information on Cryptosporidium can be found on the CDC’s website here.