Monday, Sep. 15, 2008

3 crypto cases linked to Keller public pools

Staff report

Three cases of Cryptosporidium have been linked to the city's swimming facility, The Keller Pointe, according to a news release Thursday.

"This indicates the potential for Crypto to spread through our community," the release said.

Crypto is a chlorine-resistant parasite that, if ingested, can cause stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea and fever for up to two weeks. It is found in feces and is usually spread through water.

The dates that the cases were discovered were not immediately available. Pointe pools were hyper-chlorinated July 23 after 16 cases were reported in Tarrant County. The city called the treatment a preventative measure.

Pools will undergo that treatment each week, the release said.

More than 141 cases have been reported in the county this summer. Of those, at least 88 are linked to an outbreak at Burger's Lake in west Fort Worth in June and July.

To prevent spreading the parasite, those infected should avoid swimming, the release said. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises swimmers to not swallow water, to shower before swimming, to wash their hands after using the toilet or changing diapers, to not change diapers poolside, to take children on regular bathroom breaks and to wash children with soap and water before swimming.

Those who suspect they are infected are advised to contact their doctor. Confirmed cases, the release said, should be reported to the Tarrant County Public Health Department at 817-321-5350.