Swimmers in Victoria have been issued an emergency health warning after gastro cases exceeded the five-year average.
There have been 87 confirmed cases of cryptosporidiosis, also known as crypto, as of Friday, according to the state health department.
The latest health warning comes after Victoria discovered a record 2,349 crypto cases in 2024 – a 233 per cent increase on 2023 cases.
Cases of cryptosporidiosis usually increase during periods of warm weather.
The disease is spread through physical contact with an infected person or when contaminated water is accidentally swallowed in a swimming pool.
The most common symptoms are watery diarrhea and stomach cramps, which can last for several weeks.
Other symptoms include fever, vomiting and loss of appetite.
Health officials have urged anyone who has had diarrhea to avoid swimming in public pools for at least two weeks.
Swimmers in Victoria have been urged to stay away from public pools after cases of a contagious stomach disease hit a record high this summer
There have been 87 confirmed cases of the infectious disease on Friday
The disease can also be transmitted when contaminated food is consumed and when infected animals are petted.
Cryptosporidiosis is caused by a parasite known as cryptosporidium.
Frustratingly, the organism is highly resistant to chlorine, which is often used to disinfect the water in public swimming pools.
Although there is no specific treatment or medication for cryptosporidiosis, people are advised to drink uncontaminated water to prevent dehydration.
Preventive measures such as practicing good personal hygiene by washing hands regularly with soap are also encouraged.
Patients are also advised not to prepare or handle food that other people may eat until at least 48 hours after their diarrhea has stopped.
