May 1, 2026. Reno, Sparks, Nev. – Northern Nevada Public Health (NNPH) – Population Health Division is investigating an outbreak of cryptosporidiosis cases associated with a live animal yoga class in Washoe County.
Cryptosporidiosis, sometimes referred to as “Crypto”, is an illness caused by a parasite that can spread when small amounts of fecal matter from infected animals are accidentally ingested.
Symptoms include diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, or vomiting. Other illnesses that may be transmitted through animal contact include salmonellosis and E. coli infections.
NNPH is reminding the public to take certain precautions when participating in live animal yoga classes (which can include goats, rabbits, puppies, etc.).
“While activities like animal yoga can be enjoyable and beneficial, it’s important for participants to understand the potential health risks associated with close contact with animals,” said Dr. Chad Kingsley, District Health Officer for Northern Nevada Public Health. “Simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of illness.”
How to Reduce Your Risk
NNPH recommends the following steps when interacting with animals or environments where animals are present:
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds after contact with animals or their environment.
- If handwashing is not immediately available, use hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol); note that it may not be effective against certain organisms such as Cryptosporidium.
- Avoid kissing, cuddling, or holding animals.
- Do not eat, drink, or put objects in your mouth while in animal areas.
- Closely supervise children when they are around animals.
- Use EPA-approved disinfectants when cleaning areas contaminated with animal feces.
NNPH encourages farms and organizations offering animal-based activities to implement safety measures that help protect participants, including:
- Providing accessible handwashing stations with running water, soap, and paper towels.
- Prohibiting food, beverages, toys, pacifiers, and strollers in animal areas.
- Maintaining clear protocols for waste management, including prompt cleaning and disinfection of soiled surfaces such as yoga mats and commonly touched areas.
Individuals who experience symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, or vomiting after contact with animals should contact their healthcare provider.
Learn more about Cryptosporidium from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC). For information about the Population Health Division, visit our webpage.
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Northern Nevada Public Health (NNPH) is nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board and has jurisdiction over all public health matters in Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County through the policy-making District Board of Health. NNPH consists of four public-facing divisions: Air Quality Management, Community and Clinical Health Services, Environmental Health Services and Population Health. More info can be found here.