JULY 5, 2019

Hot Times in the Summer: Crypto Outbreaks Increasing

Outbreaks of Cryptosporidium—frequently linked to pools or water playgrounds—in the United States increased an average 13% each year from 2009 to 2017 (MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2019;68(25):568-572).

Cryptosporidium, a parasite, is spread through the fecal–oral route. People can become infected after they swallow the parasite in contaminated water or food, or after contact with infected people or animals.