MDH investigating 'diarrheal illness' linked to Great Wolf Lodge

The Minnesota Department of Health is investigating cases of a parasitic, diarrheal illness called Cryptosporidium, which has recently sickened some people who swam at the Great Wolf Lodge in Bloomington.

State health officials have created an online survey in efforts to learn more about the suspected waterborne illness outbreak and prevent further illness.

MDH officials are seeking survey participants who've been ill, as well as participants who've not had any recent illness, to collect information about waterpark usage, other potential exposures and any recent symptoms.

Great Wolf Lodge reports that Cryptosporidium cases were identified in a "small number of guests" who stayed at the water park in mid-June, 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS reports . A hyperclorination process has since been carried out to ensure the waterpark is safe.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) , the illness is caused by a microscopic parasite and usually causes watery diarrhea beginning two to 10 days after exposure.

Cryptosporidium , or "Crypto" germs, live in infected poop and can be spread when a person swallows contaminated water or food.

The illness typically resolves in one to two weeks and most people recover without treatment, according to the CDC.

Hand washing can help prevent infections.