Pool closed pending test results

It has emerged that a number of people who have been infected with cryptosporidiosis had been swimming at the Tryst.

However, health experts have stressed that they may not have picked up the infection from the Tryst pools and that the closure was a precautionary measeure.

Dr John Logan, Consultant in Public Health Medicine said:"From reviewing the cases in Lanarkshire it was identified that a small number had visited the swimming pools within the Tryst Sports Complex in Cumbernauld.

"As a precautionary measure North Lanarkshire Leisure agreed to temporarily close the swimming pools at the Tryst."

Dr Logan stressed, however, that people should not jump to conclusions.

He said: "We recognise that these cases may not have acquired their infection from using the swimming pools and our investigations include reviewing other possible explanations for the increase.

"We do expect to see cases of cryptosporidiosis throughout the year and regular reviews take place to identify if there are any common factors."

Meanwhile, a spokesman for North Lanarkshire Leisure said: "On advice from our colleagues at NHS Lanarkshire we have temporarily closed the pool at The Tryst in Cumbernauld.

"This is on a precautionary basis due to the possible and unconfirmed presence of cryptosporidium.

"We are now following our robust procedures and are liaising closely with colleagues from NHS Lanarkshire, North Lanarkshire Council's environmental services and the Health and Safety Executive to carry out further tests.

"Once these tests are complete we will reopen the pool at The Tryst as soon as possible."

Anyone with concerns about a diarrhoeal illness should contact their GP or NHS24 (www.nhs24.com or 08454 24 24 24) for advice.

Other areas of the Tryst complex are open as normal.