The statewide ban on diapered kids in pools has been lifted.

Since the beginning of June, 1,912 cases of cryptosporidiosis have been reported statewide. But in the last three weeks, there have been only six additional cases.

Cryptosporidium is a parasite that causes long-lasting, often debilitating, diarrhea that is traditionally transmitted from fecal matter in swimming pools. In a normal year, Utah sees about 30 cases throughout the state.

Wednesday's change means the restriction from swimming has been lifted for anyone who needs to wear diapers, regardless of age. And day care centers may once again include water activities in their daily routines. The original restrictions also required pool owners to hyperchlorinate pools and maintain higher levels of chlorine. That requirement was lifted in October.

Roger Thomas, Provo Parks and Recreation director, said the city's indoor pool numbers have been down since the restrictions were put in place in August, and he hopes that with the ease of restrictions they'll go back up.

"I've been in Provo 11 1/2 years and this is the first time we've ever had to deal with this kind of situation," he said.

Salt Lake County recently went so far as to waive swimming pool fees for a weekend to lure swimmers back. That county's pool attendance was tens of thousands of visitors lower than usual.

Public health officials are worried about another outbreak next year and are researching ways to combat the problem. Utah isn't the only state running from crypto, as the parasite has spread through most Rocky Mountain states.

Anyone who has had diarrhea should stay out of the pool for two weeks after the symptoms have gone away. For more information about crypto, visit www.cdc.gov/healthyswimming.

•Joe Pyrah can be reached at 344-2559 or jpyrah@heraldextra.com.