Morris pool closes to prevent spread of fecal parasite

Friday is likely the hottest day of the year so far, hovering around a staggering 94 degrees. Unfortunately, those wishing to cool off at the Morris pool will have to look elsewhere.

The Morris City Pool in Goold Park was closed Friday to prevent the spread of cryptosporidium, a fecal, waterborne microscopic parasite that has been infecting pools across the nation this year.

Morris City Pool has not tested positive for the parasite, but staff has chosen to treat the water as a preventative measure. Crypto causes diarrhea and fever, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Pool Manager Jim Hitchcock said pool staff will be hyper-chlorinating the pool today, a process that will take about 16 hours.

“We’re doing what is necessary to protect the members of our community,” Hitchcock said.