“Recreational water illnesses,” according to the CDC (Center for Disease Control), are illnesses contracted from playing in water. You can pick them up from swimming in natural water sources such as lakes, rivers, and the ocean.
What’s even more shocking is the fact that you can catch a nasty infection from a man-made swimming pool that’s loaded with germ-killing chlorine. Yes, your very own pool that you work so hard to maintain and keep clean could be a source of disease and contagion.
Some infections and health problems that can be picked up from swimming pools include:
- coli
- Norovirus (stomach flu)
- Giardia
- Athlete’s foot
- Skin rashes
- Eye irritation
- Wound infections
Chlorination is the most effective way to reduce germs in pool water. Here too, however, lies another health risk. Chlorine mixes with traces of human waste and other debris and gives off noxious gases that can irritate the respiratory system. In fact, a strong smell of chlorine doesn’t guarantee a clean pool. It can actually indicate that your pool water is loaded with waste that is reacting with the chlorine.
What is the answer to maintaining a clean pool that’s perfect for fun and exercise without compromising your family’s health?
Prevention is key. Require all swimmers to rinse off in a quick shower before entering the pool. Remind kids not to pee in the pool. If anyone has recently had a bout of diarrhea or has an open wound, they should stay out of the water.
Our Miami pool professionals at Somar Pools can help you do your part to keep your pool pristine. We’ll explain the best pool disinfection methods and keep your filter system in working order.