(16:21) SANTA CRUZ- Simpkins Family Swim Center is expected to reopen today after cleaning following two cases of cryptosporidium infection were found in children who had visited the facility earlier this month. While a linkage to the facility cannot be definitively made, officials at the Department of Parks, Open Space and Cultural Services, acting out of an abundance of caution, decided to close all four pools at Simpkins and initiated a process known as hypoclorination, which includes raising chlorine levels at the pool by several factors above normal levels for a duration of more than 12 hours in order to eliminate the risk to patrons. Cryptosporidium induces gastrointestinal symptoms, with an incubation period of 1-12 days. Both children visited Simpkins on July 13, and are recovering. Anyone who visited the pool in the last 12 days and is experiencing similar symptoms should contact their primary care provider.
