Warning issued after spike in cases of stomach illness

A recent rise in cases of stomach illness caused by a micro-organism has prompted a warning from the Shire of Broome.

Shire senior environmental health officer Chantal Spittle said the WA Health Department had reported an increase in the number of stomach illnesses caused by Cryptosporidiosis.

Cryptosporidiosis is characterised by diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, slight fever or weight loss.

It is most commonly spread by hands contaminated after toilet use and nappy changing, but may also occur if a person has come into contact with uncooked food, dust and soil, animals, clothing and bedding, sexual contact or water from swimming pools.

The Department said there had been 14 cases in Broome since December 2014.

Ms Spittle said cases were reported most years and commonly during the wet season, but the frequency of cases had recently increased.

She said the best way to prevent infection was by washing and drying hands thoroughly after using the toilet or changing nappies and before preparing food.

“The Shire has contacted childcare centres, schools, remote communities, public swimming pool operators such as resorts, and other stakeholders with information and advice about preventing the spread of Cryptosporidiosis,” she said.

“Both the BRAC swimming pool and Town Beach water playground are fitted with UV filters that are effective against Cryptosporidium, but as an added precaution the BRAC pool was super chlorinated last week, and the Town Beach water playground will be super chlorinated today during its weekly closure for maintenance.”

Ms Spittle said it was also recommended that private pool owners who suspect an infected person has been swimming should carry out a super chlorination.

“It’s extremely important that anyone displaying symptoms keeps out of swimming pools for at least 14 days, as well as washing their hands diligently and following other good hygiene practices.”

For more information visit the Shire website at www.broome.wa.gov.au or by calling (08) 9191 3456.

Anyone with concerns about Cryptosporidiosis should visit their doctor.