The Herald Sun reported on January 26 that an outbreak of gastroenterology caused by a chlorine-resistant parasite has been linked to a public swimming pool in Melbourne's inner north.
Brunswick Baths has been briefly closed. Prior to this, the Western Public Health Unit was notified of an outbreak of cryptosporidium among several people who had been swimming at the center.
The WPHU investigation found that the infection was "highly likely" after a pool swim.
The outdoor pool at Brunswick Baths is one of 3 pools at the center that have been linked to outbreaks of gastroenterology.
The pool reopened Thursday afternoon after additional chlorine treatment of the pool water. However, the spa reportedly remained closed until Friday morning.
Cryptosporidiosis is a type of gastroenteritis caused by the parasite Cryptosporidium, which is usually more common during the warmer months and is spread by people drinking pool water by mistake.
The disease causes watery diarrhea and stomach cramps and can last for weeks.
Other symptoms may include fever, nausea, vomiting, bloating, and loss of appetite.
Less commonly, Cryptosporidium infection may present with pneumonia, cholecystitis, or pancreatitis.
Some infected people may not experience any symptoms.
According to Active Merri-bek's statement, Brunswick Baths always takes water treatment measures to protect pool users from germs and debris.
"However, despite the best routine water disinfection measures, Cryptosporidium can generally survive normal levels of pool chlorine and remain in the pool water," the statement said. ”
Active Meri-bek is a website managed by the council that details local leisure centers and sports clubs.
WPHU says any gastroenteritis symptoms could be a sign of Cryptosporidium infection and advises all pool users to go to the hospital for a simple check-up.
The heritage-listed Brunswick Baths is one of Meri-bek's 5 public pools.
People with recent diarrhea should not swim for 14 days after the last onset of symptoms.
Health Victoria advises members of the public to avoid swallowing pool water, shower before swimming, and wash their hands with soap after going to the toilet, changing diapers, handling animals or preparing food and drink.
Children should stay away from daycare or school until they have no symptoms within 24 hours, and they should not handle food or prepare food for others until at least 48 hours after the diarrhea has stopped.
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