According to the Centers For Disease Control, there were twice as many outbreaks of parasitic infections reported in 2016 as in 2014.
"At least 32 outbreaks caused by Cryptosporidium (also known as “Crypto”) linked to swimming pools or water playgrounds in the United States were reported in 2016, compared with 16 outbreaks in 2014, according to preliminary data published today in CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report."
The CDC points out that it is not clear if there has been an actual rise in outbreaks or if better "surveillance and laboratory methods have lead to increased detection.
Infectious Disease Specialist at UC Health Dr. Carl Fichtenbaum said outbreaks of a parasitic infection linked to swimming pools and water playgrounds can be avoided by swimmers showering before entering pools or not swimming at all if sick with diarrhea.
"...if you are sick or if your little on is sick in particular don't bring them to the pool let them get better and let them wait a week or two before they come to the public pool," said Dr. Fichtenbaum.
The CDC reports that "Crypto is the most common cause of diarrheal illness and outbreaks linked to swimming pools or water playgrounds because it is not easily killed by chlorine and can survive up to 10 days in properly treated water.
"Healthy people can become "sick for up to three weeks with watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, or vomiting, and can lead to dehydration" just from "swallowing just a mouthful of water contaminated with Crypto."