Two Gateshead leisure centres have been forced to close their pools due to a cryptosporidiosis outbreak.

The bug can cause stomach pains, fever, vomiting, headaches and diarrhoea.

Seven swimmers contracted cryptosporidiosis after using Dunston and Blaydon leisure centre pools.

It is not yet known how the swimming pools became contaminated.

The pools are being cleaned out and will be shut for several days. Gateshead Council’s other pools, in Birtley Swimming Centre, Heworth Leisure Centre and Gateshead Leisure Centre, are not affected.

Here is what we know about the bug.

So what is cryptosporidiosis?

It is an animal parasite infection which can be passed to humans. It is a fairly common disease for humans and domestic animals.

Children under 15 years old are more susceptible and it is more common in spring and autumn.

What happens to people who contract it?

Symptoms can show within one day of picking up the virus, but often hit after a week. They can last for up to six weeks.

They include diarrhoea, fever, stomach pains, feeling nauseous and/or vomiting, tiredness, weight loss and suppressed appetite.

How does the bug spread? How would I catch it in a swimming pool?

The parasite is often passed by drinking untreated water. According to the NHS , if a swimming pool is not properly cleaned the water can become contaminated. Swimmers who accidentally swallow pool water can then contract the virus.

Young animals carry the parasite and it can be passed to humans if they fail to wash their hands after handling animals. Contact with other humans then spreads the virus.

Nurseries are a common source of outbreaks. It can also be passed through sexual contact.

How do I prevent getting the virus?

The risk of spreading the virus can be reduced by washing your hands regularly, especially before and after coming into contact with food.

How is it treated?

Antibiotics do not help. People are usually just told to drink plenty of water.

Most are advised to wait until 48 hours after their diarrhoea or sickness clears before returning to work.