Cases of intestinal illness spike in Yellowstone County [Video]

(RiverStone Health Press Release)

BILLINGS – RiverStone Health public health officials are investigating an outbreak of Cryptosporidiosis (Crypto) in Yellowstone County from multiple water sources.

Crypto is a diarrhea-causing illness caused by the protozoan Cryptosporidium. It is most often spread when a person swallows water containing germs from the fecal matter of infected humans or animals. Transmission is typically from swimming pools, as the organism is highly resistant to chlorine, as well as open water like lakes and rivers.

So far this summer, public health officials have identified 26 confirmed cases of Crypto, as well as 29 additional cases linked to the confirmed cases. In 2023, there were nine confirmed cases, and four confirmed cases in 2022.

Once a person is infected, the incubation period averages seven days but can range up to 12 days.

Signs and symptoms include diarrhea (often profuse and watery) and sometimes vomiting. Diarrhea may wax and wane, but commonly stops in otherwise healthy individuals within 30 days.

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