Victorians infected by gastro after swimming in public pools

Victorians are being warned of a rise in gastro cases linked to public pools amid reports people have been swimming while infected with the chlorine-resistant parasite.

Gastro cases have spiked in Victoria as authorities warn multiple people have swam in public pools while infected with a chlorine-resistant parasite.

An alert — released just days before Christmas — warned cryptosporidiosis cases had been increasing in Victoria since September, with some people “infected after using public swimming pools”.

“Public health investigations have found people are attending pools while they are infectious,” the alert, issued by Chief Health Officer Dr Clare Looker stated.

Cryptosporidiosis is a type of gastroenteritis caused by the parasite, Cryptosporidium, and often increases during warmer months — spread by people accidentally swallowing pool water.

The alert warned “cryptosporidium parasites are highly resistant to the levels of chlorine normally found in swimming pools” and people should not swim if they have had diarrhoea in the past 14 days.

Cryptosporidium parasites are highly resistant to the levels of chlorine normally found in swimming pools.

“The most common symptoms of cryptosporidiosis are watery diarrhoea and stomach cramps which may last several weeks,” the alert said.

“Other symptoms may include fever, nausea, vomiting, bloating and loss of appetite. Less commonly, Cryptosporidium infection can present as pneumonia, cholecystitis or pancreatitis. Some people who are infected may not show any symptoms.

“Outbreaks can be linked to sources such as contaminated drinking water, swimming pools and petting infected animals.”

Anyone who believes they have cryptosporidiosis should see a doctor for a test. If positive, their doctor will notify the Health Department.

The department recommends the public avoid swallowing pool water, shower before swimming and wash hands with soap after going to the toilet, changing a nappy, handling animals or before preparing food or drink.

Children should be kept home from childcare or school until they have been symptom free for 24 hours, and you should not handle food or prepare food for others until “at least 48 hours after the diarrhoea has stopped.”

“Several European countries and New Zealand have also reported a recent increase in the number of cases,” the alert said.