Outbreak of cryptosporidiosis associated with a water sprinkler fountain--Minnesota, 1997.

Cryptosporidiosis associated with recreational water exposure is becoming recognized more frequently. This report summarizes the investigation of a large outbreak of cryptosporidiosis associated with exposure to a water sprinkler fountain at the Minnesota Zoo. The initial cases were not diagnosed as cryptosporidiosis by the health-care system despite patients seeking care, underscoring the need for increased awareness of cryptosporidiosis and routine laboratory diagnostic practices among health-care providers.