Cryptosporidium Fears Shut Down Water Features Park
Some folks have written in recently to tell us that they seriously doubt the ‘hype’ about waterborne illnesses from contaminated swimming pools, hot tubs, etc. In response to their doubts, we now present you with an actual case where health officials shut down a water feature park in Columbia, SC because a person who had visited the park recently tested positive for an intestinal parasite known as Cryptosporidium.
Columbia, SC (WLTX) – The Drew Splash Pad is closed while health officials test to see if the water there has an intestinal parasite in it.
The Splash Pad, which opened last year, is located behind the Drew Wellness Center in Columbia.
City park officials closed the pad Thursday after they were told by health officials that there was a possible link between the splash pad and one confirmed case of cryptosporidium.
Cryptosporidium is a parasite spread through feces. It’s normally found in fresh waters. It can cause diarrhea, abdominal cramps, headaches, nausea, vomiting, and a low-grade fever.
Symptoms can last up to two weeks.
City pools remain open to the public. ( source )
Moral of the Story? Proper hygiene and diligent water testing DO matter when it comes to keeping the general public safe. Hopefully the folks in the Health Department down in Columbia, SC will find the source of that Cryptosporidium quickly and wipe it out before more people get sick.
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