Parasite Hits Hotel Pool in Bothell

A parasite outbreak hit a hotel pool in Bothell, Washington. Fourteen guests reported stomach trouble after swimming there in late August. The illness was traced to a microscopic bug called cryptosporidium. The hotel, McMenamins Anderson School, is a converted junior high turned boutique hotel and entertainment spot.

Cryptosporidium can survive chlorine for days. An infected swimmer likely introduced it into the water. The pool passed all inspections and had no violations. Because the parasite is highly resistant to chlorine, even well‑treated water can harbor it for several days.

Health officials say the outbreak is now over. No one was hospitalized and no deaths occurred. The hotel followed every county rule. Investigators noted the facility was clean and met all safety standards during a September check.

People who have had diarrhea should stay out of public pools for two weeks. Shower with soap before you get in the water. Simple steps can stop the spread. Officials stress that a quick shower with soap before swimming removes many germs.