Cryptosporidium Outbreak Discovered in Ohio

Earlier in November, cases associated with Cryptosporidium, surpassed 1,000 affected individuals in three Ohio counties. The outbreak was originally declared in August after multiple cases were reported from exposure at various recreational water facilities.

Cryptosporidium (Crypto) is an intestinal parasite that is found in water, food, soil or on surfaces that have been contaminated with the feces from a person or animal infected with Crypto. It is often spread by ingesting water that contains contaminated fecal material. Symptoms can include diarrhea, abdominal pain, dehydration, weight loss, fever, nausea and vomiting for 72 hour or longer. Even after symptoms have subsided, an infected individual can continue to spread the disease for several weeks.

“In the past, Crypto outbreaks have been identified with public drinking water supplies, aquatic parks, swimming pools, day care centers and the consumption of contaminated food and beverages,” said Diane Miskowski, MPH, National Legionella Program Manager at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Children who are still in diapers, animal handlers, people engaging in anal intercourse, health care and day care workers are also prone to infection. To prevent the spread of Crypto, regular hand washing is critical. Those using aquatic centers or other swimming facilities should shower before and after entering the water and should not swim while experiencing diarrhea. Babies should wear special swimming diapers, and they should be changed frequently in the rest room and not pool side. Also, pool water should not be swallowed or kept in the mouth.”

To learn more about Crypto transmission and symptoms, please view EMSL Analytical, Inc.’s sponsored educational video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RIFVlIrd8L0&feature=youtu.be.

EMSL is one of the few certified laboratories in the United States that can test for Cryptosporidium. To learn more about different aquatic microbiology or other testing services, please visit www.AquaticMicrobiologyLab.com or www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email  info@EMSL.com . For service questions, please contact Diane Miskowski for expert information at (800) 220-3675 extension 2528.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with over 40 locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP 797, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOC’s, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

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