Another person has been diagnosed with Cryptosporidium, bringing the total to 13 confirmed cases in the North Shore.
North Shore Health Department Health Officer Jamie Berg said health officials expect to see an increase in the number of Crypto cases as a result of person-to-person contact. The best way to prevent further person-to-person contraction of Crypto is through hand washing, and for infected people to avoid swimming in public pools for 14 days after their last episode of diarrhea.
While the source of the Cryptosporidium outbreak has been difficult to detect, it is believed to be linked to pools in the North Shore area. The infected people have reported swimming at the Whitefish Bay High School pool and the Jewish Community Center's aquatic center.
In addition to possible pool infections, Berg said interviews with some of the infected people revealed that they were in contact with friends or family members who had been experiencing diarrhea, a symptom of Cryptosporidium, that subsided before they were diagnosed.
Two new "probable cases" were reported Wednesday, making a total of 14 probable cases.
Municipal water from the North Shore Water Commission and Treatment Plant remains safe to drink, according to the North Shore Health Department.
The health department strongly encourages people to be tested who have diarrhea. If you are sick with diarrhea and are concerned that you may have Crypto, call your doctor or local health department and stay home until symptoms subside.
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