Health Officials Preach Prevention Against Waterborne Illnesses

UNDATED -- The Minnesota Health Department is asking everyone to help avoid waterborne illness outbreaks this summer.

With the 4th of July approaching, lots of people will be swimming and going to splash pads.

Epidemiologist Trisha Robinson says don't go swimming if you or your child has diarrhea, change diapers often, give kids bathroom breaks often and practice good hygiene.

Robinson says make sure kids aren't drinking the water.  It's the number one way to contract a waterborne illness.  She says kids like to drink the water, especially at splash pads.

Last year there was a record number of 11 recreational waterborne outbreaks in Minnesota totaling nearly 200 illnesses.

Robinson says don't be fooled that chlorine kills all bacteria. She says parasites like Cryptosporidium are resistant to chlorine.