Splash Pads Now Linked to Explosive Diarrhea Outbreak

While it's a serious public health issue, you can't deny how funny it is that Taco Bell is wrapped up as the major source of America's explosive diarrhea outbreak. But it's actually contaminated lettuce from their supplier, the same one a lot of restaurants use. Taco Bell is just the butt of the joke.

Without trying to make things worse, we're seeing this whole debacle quite literally trickle down into everyday life now.

Splash pads, waterparks, and pools are now linked to the spread of the parasite that causes this embarrassing issue.

This is the worst sort of news we could be getting as the summer heat is really settling in the Sooner State.

A family needs something to do on a hot day. It's summer. Splash pads and waterparks are a cheap or free means to cool off and let the kids be kids... And it only takes a little bad hygiene or a dirty diaper getting dipped in the water to spread the germ to others.

Even worse, the parasite is astonishingly resistant to the chlorine America uses to sterilize our water.

As Oklahoma cases are steadily on the rise, we're entering what seems to be a legit Poop Pandemic.

Now, while it is incredibly gross to think about how this thing spreads through contact with feces, it is worth noting that it is rarely fatal. That's not as comforting as the CDC probably thinks it is.

Alternatively, the endless trips to the bathroom can make you wish for death.

Even though it may be really embarrassing, if you do find yourself blowing up bathrooms more often than normal over the rest of the summer, you should consult a doctor.

Cyclosporiasis could go away on its own, through your body's own immune system, but it's far more likely to enter a give-and-take battle of health over the next couple of weeks. You may get over it after a few days, but it will return eventually without treatment.

You don't want to hit on this cycle. It can last weeks and months.

Symptoms

• Cramps
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Vomiting
• Watery Diarrhea
• Frequent Explosive Bowel Movements

While it is still very present on fresh produce and foods, it can also be spread through water. Accidentally swallowing a gulp of feces-laden water from the pool, or even hopping out of the water to grab a snack.

Does that mean you should skip the splash pad? Eh... What are the odds really? But if you ever thought to have your own pool at home, or even just a cheap slip-and-slide, here's the perfect excuse to treat yourself.