Geelong’s Leisurelink temporary closed as precaution against Cryptosporidium

City of Greater Geelong has closed all aquatic facilities at Leisurelink on 20th August, as the pools undergo 'hyperchlorination' as a precautionary health and safety measure.

The Department of Health has notified the City that a confirmed case of Cryptosporidium has visited the facility in the past two weeks.

As a result, Council is taking the precautionary measure required to protect patron’s health and prevent the spread of germs.

Council noted “We understand this is an inconvenience and hope you understand that community health and safety is our top priority.

“We look forward to reopening the area normal hours from Wednesday 21st August.”

Council advised that only the pool hall, including all pools, splash park, waterslides, spa, steam room and sauna will be closed. The gym, group exercise studios, Creche and cafe will be open as usual.

Swimming lessons and classes are cancelled during closures. Credits will apply for swimming lessons.

City of Greater Geelong offered the information below on Cryptosporidium

• Cryptosporidium, also known as 'Crypto', is a tough germ that can be spread when recently infected swimmers contaminate the water with tiny amounts of the germ present on their body. Possible sources of contamination include someone who has recently had illness, domestic animals such as pets, and farm animals such as cattle.

• Crypto associated with pools occur when swimmers accidentally swallow pool water with the germ present. The germ is normally spread through poor hygiene (such as not washing effectively), usually by ingesting contaminated food or water.

• The germs are highly resistant to chlorine, the usual form of pool disinfection. Therefore a hyperchlorination (much stronger) process will be applied to all pools in the facility today, with chlorine to be returned to safe levels for swimming and the aquatic hall to be reopened Wednesday.

• The symptoms of Crypto are watery diarrhoea, often with cramping and abdominal pain, and can last up to two weeks. If you are sick, you should see your doctor who can test you and report cases to the Department of Health.