SWIMMING pools in the Harrogate area have been tested by health officials after an increase in cryptosporidium - an infection which cases diarrhoea and stomach pain.

GPs in the area have also been informed of the increase in cases as part of an investigation by North Yorkshire Health Protection Unit, Harrogate Borough Council and Craven, Harrogate and Rural District Primary Care Trust.

The infection, which is self-limiting and needs no specific treatment, can be caused by direct contact with farm animals or ill pets, consuming unwashed raw vegetables and drinking untreated surface water, swimming pools and drinking water.

Initial investigations show there is no evidence that mains drinking water was a cause of this increased incidence.

Each case of cryptosporidium is being looked at closely to identify possible risk factors and links and all GPs in the Harrogate area have been alerted.

The environmental health department of Harrogate Borough Council has tested some local swimming pools and has written to managers of swimming pools and child care establishments to re-enforce existing hygiene precautions.

Dr Ebere Okereke, consultant in communicable disease control at North Yorkshire Health Protection Unit, said: "We would like to take this opportunity to remind people of general measures to maintain good hygiene which should be practised by everyone and which help to prevent the spread of illnesses of this nature.

"We are all working together to ensure that every possible precautionary measure is taken to avoid further cases of cryptosporidium."

Advice includes washing hands after going to the toilet and before meals; thoroughly washing fruit and vegetables; not drinking untreated water; avoiding swimming pools or spas if you have symptoms of gastroenteritis; discouraging children from petting and feeding farm animals and ensuring babies wear a swimming nappy in the pool.

Updated: 09:45 Friday, April 18, 2003