Rare Cryptosporidium hominis Subtype Associated with Aquatic Center Use
Author Information
Author(s): Ong Corinne S.L., Chow Simon, Gustafson Reka, Plohman Candace, Parker Robert, Isaac-Renton Judith L., Fyfe Murray W.
Primary Institution: University of British Columbia
Hypothesis
Were the cases of cryptosporidiosis in the Tri-Cities area related to the use of a community aquatic center?
Conclusion
The study identified a new subtype of Cryptosporidium hominis linked to a disease cluster associated with an aquatic center.
Supporting Evidence
- Fifteen laboratory-confirmed cases were identified over a 3-month period.
- All cases were linked to a community aquatic center.
- The gp60 sequences from all case-patients were identical and were subtype IdA19.
- This subtype has been rarely reported globally.
Takeaway
Some people got sick after using a community pool, and scientists found a rare germ that might have made them sick.
Methodology
Molecular analysis of fecal specimens from confirmed cases was conducted to identify the Cryptosporidium subtype.
Limitations
The association between the new subtype and previous outbreaks remains uncertain.
Participant Demographics
Cases were from 5 separate households in the Tri-Cities area.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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