The Adelaide Aquatic Centre and Waterworld in Ridgehaven have been closed as a precautionary measure after eight children contracted gastroenteritis linked to the cryptosporidium parasite. The incident has prompted health officials to close multiple pools for thorough cleaning to prevent further spread of the infection. Waterworld has since reopened, but the Adelaide Aquatic Centre is set to reopen on Thursday.

The South Australian Health Department is taking this situation seriously, advising anyone with gastroenteritis symptoms to avoid public swimming areas to help stop the outbreak. The children affected were between the ages of five and thirteen, and one child had to be hospitalized overnight as a result of the infection. Health director Chris Lease has emphasized the importance of hygiene and caution while using public swimming facilities.

This outbreak raises concerns over public health in aquatic environments, particularly with the potential for parasites like cryptosporidium to cause illness. The response from local health authorities aims to ensure the safety of swimmers and maintain public trust in aquatic facilities. As the Adelaide community awaits the reopening of its aquatic centre, continued monitoring and public awareness will be pivotal in managing health risks associated with public swimming areas.