Beware Of Cryptosporidiosis Risk This Summer

Queenslanders are being reminded to practise good hygiene this summer as health authorities warn of the risk of cryptosporidiosis, a highly contagious gastrointestinal illness that spreads easily from person to person.

With many residents cooling off at swimming pools, splash parks and water attractions, preventing illness relies on simple hygiene measures and responsible behaviour in and around water.

Cryptosporidiosis — commonly known as crypto — is caused by a parasite called Cryptosporidium and is a frequent cause of acute diarrhoea. The illness can be contracted by swallowing contaminated water and spreads through close contact in households and childcare settings, contaminated food and water, and handling infected pets or farm animals.

Recreational water, including swimming pools and splash parks, is a known transmission risk, particularly during the warmer months when water use increases.

Queensland Health’s Communicable Diseases Branch Executive Director Dr Heidi Carroll said good hygiene practices are essential to protect both individuals and the wider community.

“Make sure you wash your hands thoroughly after using the toilet and changing nappies. Also, clean your toddler’s or baby’s hands after a nappy change,” Dr Carroll said.

“Children who have had diarrhoea should not return to school or childcare until at least 24 hours after their symptoms have stopped, and food handlers and health care workers should stay away from work for at least 48 hours after the last episode of diarrhoea and maintain strict hand hygiene.

“Because people with cryptosporidiosis can remain infectious even after symptoms settle, they should avoid swimming while they have diarrhoea and for two weeks after it has stopped,” Dr Carroll said.

Symptoms include watery diarrhoea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, headache and loss of appetite. Dr Carroll advised anyone experiencing severe or worsening symptoms to seek medical advice.