Victorian swimmers have been given an urgent health warning after gastro cases surpassed the five-year average.
There have been 87 confirmed cases of cryptosporidiosis, also known as crypto, as of Friday, according to the state health department.
The latest health warning comes after Victoria detected a record 2,349 crypto cases in 2024, a 233 per cent increase on 2023 cases.
Cryptosporidiosis cases typically increase during periods of warm weather.
The disease is transmitted through physical contact with an infected person or when contaminated water is accidentally ingested in a swimming pool.
The most common symptoms of the disease are watery diarrhea and stomach cramps, which can last for several weeks.
Other symptoms include fever, vomiting and loss of appetite.
Health officials have urged anyone who has experienced diarrhea to avoid swimming in public pools for at least two weeks.
Victorian swimmers have been urged to stay away from public pools after cases of a contagious gastro-disease hit a record high this summer.

As of Friday, 87 cases of the infectious disease have been confirmed.
The disease can also be transmitted when contaminated food is consumed and when infected animals are petted.
Cryptosporidiosis is caused by a parasite known as cryptosporidium.
Frustratingly, the organism is very resistant to chlorine, which is commonly used to disinfect water in public swimming pools.
While there is no specific treatment or medication for cryptosporidiosis, it is recommended to drink uncontaminated water to prevent dehydration.
Preventive measures such as practicing good personal hygiene by washing your hands regularly with soap are also recommended.
Patients are also advised not to prepare or handle foods that other people may eat until at least 48 hours after the diarrhea has stopped.