Parasite Making Swimmers Sick in Albuquerque

ALBUQUERQUE – The city of Albuquerque, the state Health Department and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are investigating cases of a waterborne illness in Albuquerque.

Health officials say they have confirmed two cases of cryptosporidiosis and are looking into 10 probable cases.

Cryptosporidiosis is caused by a parasite and is spread to others who either touch contaminated feces or drink contaminated water.

Officials say people who became sick reported swimming at the West Mesa Aquatic Center.

Several people became ill after a statewide swim meet at the center in late July and a city swim meet on August 2nd.

The city treated the aquatic center, and officials say it's now safe.

As a precaution, all city public pools that remain open are being super-chlorinated.