Cryptosporidium
GCWW has tested for Cryptosporidium (Crypto) in treated water and has never detected it. Crypto is a microscopic organism that, when ingested, can result in fever, gastrointestinal symptoms, and diarrhea. The organism is found in surface waters and comes from animal and human wastes in the watershed. Crypto is eliminated by an effective treatment combination including sedimentation, filtration and disinfection.
Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. Immuno-compromised persons, such as persons with cancer undergoing chemo-therapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants can be particularly at risk of infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers.
USEPA/CDC guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline: 1-800-426-4791.