State public health officials are asking Iowans who’ve been sick to stay out of their local swimming pool. There have been outbreaks of "crypto" in the Dubuque and Mason City areas this summer. People were sickened by the water-borne disease, which is resistant to cholorine.
State epidemiologist Dr. Patricia Quinlisk says people who’ve been diagnosed with crypto — or anyone who has had diarrhea — should stay out of a swimming pool for two weeks so they don’t spread the illness to others.
While there have been an "especially high" number of cases of crypto in Dubuque and Cerro Gordo counties, Quinlisk says cases have been reported elsewhere.
The doctor gives one dose of advice for those who are swimming — don’t drink the water. In other words, don’t swallow any of that swimming pool water while you’re swimming.