After a steep recent increase in cryptosporidiosis cases across the state, NSW Health is advising the community not to swim for at least two weeks after they’ve had diarrhoea.

Cryptosporidiosis is a diarrhoeal disease caused by the parasite, Cryptosporidium, which infects the intestine and is a common cause of acute diarrhoea in young children.

Other symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, fever, headache, and loss of appetite.

People who have had diarrhoea should:

• avoid swimming for at least two weeks after your symptoms resolve  (This means children cannot particpate in the swimming carnival water activities)

• avoid sharing towels for at least two weeks after your symptoms resolve

• avoid handling food for at least 48 hours after your symptoms resolve

• children who have diarrhoea should be kept home from preschool, childcare or playgroup until 24 hours after the diarrhoea has completely stopped.

More information on cryptosporidiosis is available on the NSW Health website http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/.../cryptosporidiosis.aspx 

• Students must not swim if they are experiencing, or have experienced in 2 weeks prior to the carnival, gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhoea
• Remind your child to regularly handwash with soap and water 
• Remind your child to avoid swallowing pool water