Cryptosporidium Outbreak Sickens 14 After Swimming at Bothell Pool
A Cryptosporidium outbreak has sickened 14 individuals after swimming at the McMenamins Anderson School Pool in Bothell, Washington.
Portland, OR, October 1, 2026 — A Cryptosporidium outbreak has led to 14 individuals falling ill following swimming activities at the McMenamins Anderson School Pool in Bothell, Washington.
The parasite Cryptosporidium, commonly known as Crypto, is a microscopic, chlorine-resistant organism that causes diarrheal disease. It is typically spread through the fecal-oral route, often occurring when someone with a Crypto infection swims in treated water, contaminating it. The parasite can survive for days, even in properly maintained pools.
Health officials have confirmed the outbreak, linking the illnesses to the specific pool located in Bothell, Washington. The exact timeline of the outbreak, including when the individuals became sick and the period during which they frequented the pool, was not immediately available. The number of confirmed cases stands at 14.
McMenamins, the operator of the Anderson School, has not released a statement regarding the outbreak. Information regarding the cause of the contamination, such as a lapse in filtration or disinfection protocols, or any specific actions being taken by pool management or local health authorities to address the situation, has not been provided.
Cryptosporidiosis symptoms typically include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, dehydration, nausea, vomiting, fever, and weight loss. Symptoms usually appear 1 to 2 weeks after swallowing the parasite and can last for 2 to 3 weeks. Individuals who are immunocompromised may experience more severe or prolonged illness.
The contractor’s name, specific dates of swimming or illness onset, and details about any potential inspection outcomes or code violations related to the pool’s water quality were not provided in the available information. Further details on the investigation and remediation efforts are pending.
Story summarized from the original created by Rose Hinchliff on www.koin.com, see more information here.
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