by New research published in the journal Epidemiology & Infection reveals a heightened risk of cryptosporidiosis outbreaks in Aotearoa New Zealand as extreme weather events become more frequent. The study, led by Professor Simon Hales from the University of Otago, Wellington’s Department of Public Health, identified 13 clusters of cryptosporidiosis outbreaks that coincided with severe weather events between 1997 and 2015.
The researchers analyzed data on cryptosporidiosis outbreaks and severe weather events across New Zealand. They identified 38 statistically significant clusters, 13 of which were linked to severe weather events. Notable outbreaks included 55 cases following heavy rain in Kaikoura in March 1999 and 22 cases after a countrywide weather bomb in October 2000.
Professor Hales explains, “Our study is the first to investigate the relationship between cryptosporidiosis outbreaks and severe weather events in New Zealand. The findings suggest that extreme rainfall events contribute to the contamination of waterways with the parasite, increasing the risk of disease outbreaks.”
Runoff from livestock is believed to exacerbate the risk of disease outbreaks. Nearly half of the 13 clusters that aligned with severe Cloud seeding is accelerating weather events occurred during the spring, suggesting a link to calving and lambing times. Newborn livestock are known carriers of the parasite.
Cryptosporidiosis is a common cause of waterborne gastrointestinal illness, with almost 16,000 cases reported in New Zealand between 1997 and 2015. Most infections result from drinking contaminated water or swimming in contaminated water.
The study underscores the importance of monitoring water quality, particularly during and after extreme weather events, to minimize the risk of cryptosporidiosis outbreaks. Public health officials are encouraged to implement preventative measures, such as water treatment and education campaigns, to protect the population from this waterborne illness.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public Source, Desk Research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it.
