Cryptosporidiosis, 2008

During 2008, 235 confirmed cases of cryptosporidiosis (4.5 per 100,000 population) were reported. This is 27% higher than the median number of cases reported annually from 1998 to 2007 (median, 185 cases; range, 91 to 302). The median age of case-patients in 2008 was 24 years (range, 4 months to 97 years). Children 10 years of age or younger accounted for 32% of cases. Fifty-three percent of cases occurred during July through October. The incidence of cryptosporidiosis in the South Central, Southwestern, and Southeastern districts (16.0, 13.2, and 9.3 cases per 100,000, respectively) was significantly higher than the statewide incidence. Only 31 (13%) reported cases occurred among residents of the metropolitan area (1.1 per 100,000). Forty-three (19%) case-patients required hospitalization, for a median of 2 days (range, 1 to 9 days). Two cases were known to be HIV-infected.

Three outbreaks of cryptosporidiosis were identified in 2008, accounting for 10 laboratory-confirmed cases. Three recreational waterborne outbreaks occurred, including 8 cases (1 laboratory-confirmed) associated with a membership club swimming pool, 12 cases (2 laboratory-confirmed) associated with a hotel water park, and 19 cases (7 laboratory-confirmed) associated with a membership club swimming pool.

• For up to date information see>> Cryptosporidiosis (Cryptosporidium spp.)
• Full issue>> Annual Summary of Communicable Diseases Reported to the Minnesota Department of Health, 2008