Cryptosporidiosis, 2007

During 2007, 302 confirmed cases of cryptosporidiosis (5.8 per 100,000 population) were reported. This is the highest number of cases ever reported in Minnesota, and is 75% higher than the median number of cases reported annually from 1996 to 2006 (median, 173 cases; range, 81 to 242). The median age of case-patients in 2007 was 20 years (range, 1 month to 101 years). Children 10 years of age or younger accounted for 37% of cases. Sixty-seven percent of cases occurred during July through October.

The incidence of cryptosporidiosis in the Southwestern, South Central, Southeastern, and West Central districts (16.0, 14.6, 14.0, and 10.1 cases per 100,000, respectively) was significantly higher than the statewide incidence. Only 67 (22%) reported cases occurred among residents of the metropolitan area (2.4 per 100,000). Forty-eight (16%) case-patients required hospitalization, for a median of 3 days (range, 1 to 20 days). Two cases were known to be HIV-infected. Three case-patients with cryptosporidiosis died; all had underlying health conditions.

Five outbreaks of cryptosporidiosis were identified in 2007, accounting for 21 laboratory-confirmed cases. An outbreak in a child daycare setting accounted for two laboratory-confirmed cases. Three recreational waterborne outbreaks occurred, including 20 cases (five laboratory-confirmed) associated with a membership club swimming pool, 60 cases (three laboratory-confirmed) associated with a hotel water park, and 33 cases (nine laboratory-confirmed) associated with a membership club swimming pool. One foodborne outbreak with two laboratory-confirmed cases was associated with an event at a private home.

• For up to date information see>> Cryptosporidiosis (Cryptosporidium spp.)
• Full issue>> Annual Summary of Communicable Diseases Reported to the Minnesota Department of Health, 2007