The Associated Press

SALT LAKE CITY - A pesky parasite that sickened more than 1,900 Utah swimmers last year has barely made a splash in 2008.

State and county health officials report nine cases of cryptosporidiosis this year that were related to recreational swimming, including six in Salt Lake County.

Cryptosporidium can cause severe diarrhea and is commonly passed through feces. The outbreak last summer was linked to public pools.

Before this year's swimming season, local and state health officials launched a public awareness campaign that included television spots, pamphlets and signs at swimming areas.

New rules also were implemented requiring children under 3 or anyone incontinent to wear swim diapers or a waterproof swim pant.

State officials reported 22 other cases of cryptosporidiosis this year that were unrelated to swimming pools.