3 Common Water Illnesses Every Minnesotan Should Know
Summer in Minnesota is synonymous with spending time in and on the water. Pools, lakes, and rivers can be a welcome escape from the summer heat, but they also can carry some hidden risks. The good news is that most of these illnesses are preventable. Here are three of the common ones to watch out for and simple ways you can stay safe while still enjoying the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
Cryptosporidiosis (Crypto) is a parasite that causes intestinal illnesses like watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever, usually more prominent in children.
It typically takes between two and 10 days for symptoms to present themselves after exposure.
The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention says it's a tough parasite that can even survive in chlorinated pools. Usually, people become sick after swallowing contaminated water, even a very small amount.
Prevention tips from the CDC:
- Don't swim if you're sick or have had diarrhea in the last two weeks.
- Remind kids not to swallow pool water.
- Shower before swimming.
- Change your child's diaper frequently.
Giardiasis is a small parasite called Giardia that causes gastrointestinal illness, including diarrhea, gas or bloating, fatigue, and stomach cramps.
The CDC says it's also caused by swallowing contaminated water, especially water from lakes and rivers. Symptoms will start to develop about one to two weeks after exposure.
Prevention tips from the CDC:
- Don't swallow lake or river water.
- Wash your hands with soap and water at key times.
- Boil or filter water from lakes, springs, or rivers before drinking or preparing food with it.
- Avoid contact with animal feces.
- Clean and disinfect areas where a person or pet recently had diarrhea.
Leptospirosis is a rare but serious bacterial infection caused by Leptospira, found in infected animal urine. It's spread through contaminated water entering your body through cuts and your mucus membranes, which include your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Symptoms usually start two to 30 days after contact and often include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, vomiting, diarrhea, and in rare cases, can lead to liver or kidney problems.
This infection is known to have two phases. A person may start to feel better for a while but become sick again without treatment.
Prevention tips from the CDC:
- Don't swim in floodwater or areas near livestock.
- Don't swallow untreated water.
- Cover open cuts with waterproof bandages.
- Wear water shoes when in lakes and rivers.
When to seek medical treatment:
- Exposure to a natural water source, followed by illness.
- Diarrhea that lasts more than three days.
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Dehydration
With a few extra precautions, you can protect your family from waterborne illnesses and enjoy a healthy summer on Minnesota's waters.
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