Swimming-related Illnesses Take Away Pool Time Fun

While splashing in the waters of Wyoming’s pools is a favorite activity for many families, swimmers should take steps to avoid catching or spreading recreational water illnesses (RWI) that can take away their pool time fun. “Basically diseases such as cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis are caused when parasites, or germs, get into the places we swim,” said Kelly Weidenbach, an epidemiologist with the Wyoming Department of Health (WDH). Symptoms of these diseases in humans can occur days to weeks after exposure and include active diarrhea, stomach cramping, nausea and loss of appetite.“We began seeing increases in cryptosporidiosis cases here in 2006. While national rates have also increased, Wyoming’s incidence rate is nearly three times as high as the national rate,” Weidenbach said. In 2012, 35 cryptosporidiosis cases were reported to WDH; 40 percent among Campbell County residents. Weidenbach said most recreational water illnesses are caused by contamination with fecal matter. “To prevent the spread of those germs, we strongly encourage people to shower before entering pools or hot tubs,” she added.
The Wyoming Department of Agriculture inspects public pools in Wyoming. Together, the agencies monitor RWI linked with public pools, hot tubs and hot springs across the state.