MDH Links Diarrhea-Producing Parasite To Campground

The Minnesota Department of Health has identified an outbreak of cryptosporidiosis associated with people who visited the Shades of Sherwood campground in Zumbrota. Investigators have identified three ill people so far, including one who required hospitalization.

One of these people was also infected with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, health officials said.

To better identify the source of infection and assess any ongoing risk, MDH investigators want to speak with people who have been at Shades of Sherwood since July 1, regardless of whether they became ill.

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Investigators have been unable to get key information from the facility itself, according to officials.

If you visited Shades of Sherwood during July, contact the MDH Waterborne Diseases Unit at (651) 201-5794.

Cryptosporidiosis is a diarrheal disease caused by a microscopic parasite called Cryptosporidium. The illness spreads when people come into contact with fecal matter from an infected person or animal.

The parasite is able to survive outside the human body for long periods of time and is highly resistant to chlorine.

Symptoms of cryptosporidiosis often include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss and low-grade fever. People typically become ill about a week after exposure, but this can range from two to 14 days.

Most people recover in one to two weeks, but they will continue to shed the parasite in their stools for at least two weeks after symptoms end.

Approximately 10 percent to 15 percent of cases require hospitalization for their illness. Illness can be especially severe or prolonged in people with weakened immune systems.

Health officials encourage anyone who experienced cryptosporidiosis symptoms, particularly if they have been at Shades of Sherwood, to contact their health care provider.

Anyone with symptoms of cryptosporidiosis should avoid swimming while sick and for two weeks after their symptoms go away.

Image via Shutterstock / Dmitry Naumov