Water bourne bacteria capable of inducing watery diarrhea can endure chlorine-treated swimming pool water for a decade. Uncovering the hidden threats lurking within aquatic recreational facilities.
In the summer months, public swimming pools provide a refreshing escape from the heat. However, a new report reveals that these popular recreational spots may pose a hidden risk to swimmers' health.
Last year, New York City's parks department had to shut down pools 203 times due to incidents involving human waste[1]. This is a concerning statistic, given that certain waterborne pathogens can survive in chlorinated pool water for extended periods.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends staying out of the water if you have diarrhea and waiting at least two weeks after symptoms clear up to swim[3]. This advice is particularly important given that common pathogens like Cryptosporidium, Giardia, norovirus, and Shigella vary significantly in how long they can survive in chlorinated pool water.
Cryptosporidium, known for its high resistance to chlorine, can survive in properly chlorinated pool water for several days[4]. This makes it a significant concern in pools despite standard chlorination. Giardia is less resistant but can still survive in chlorinated water for hours to a day, depending on chlorine concentration and water conditions[4].
Norovirus and Shigella, on the other hand, are generally less resistant to chlorine and tend to be inactivated more quickly, often within minutes to hours under typical pool chlorination levels[2]. However, outbreaks can still occur if chlorine levels are inadequate or exposure is heavy.
Outbreaks of waterborne illnesses tied to pools and other recreational venues are on the rise[5]. Outbreaks of cryptosporidium jumped 13% each year, with most traced back to people swallowing water from treated pools[5]. Between 2009 and 2017, cryptosporidium caused nearly 450 outbreaks across 40 states and Puerto Rico, sickening more than 7,400 people[5].
Bacteria such as Legionella and Pseudomonas pose additional risks, with Legionella causing a serious form of pneumonia and Pseudomonas triggering skin rashes and ear infections[6].
To minimize infection risk, it's essential to maintain proper chlorine levels and adopt additional water treatment practices. Before swimming, shower for at least a minute to rinse off dirt, sweat, and germs[7]. The average swimmer introduces up to two cans' worth of sweat and a full cup of urine into the pool[8]. Parents should take kids on regular bathroom breaks and check diapers every hour, and never change them poolside.
Fungal spores are also present in pool decks, ladders, and locker rooms, and can cause infections like athlete's foot and other skin irritations[9].
Chlorine mixed with these substances forms chloramines, a chemical byproduct that can irritate eyes and lungs and give off a strong "pool smell". While chlorine is the go-to germ killer in public pools, it's crucial to remember that it's not a foolproof solution.
In conclusion, while chlorine kills many pathogens relatively quickly, Cryptosporidium can survive for days in pool water despite chlorination, Giardia for hours to a day, and norovirus and Shigella usually much faster. This variance underscores the importance of maintaining proper chlorine levels and additional water treatment practices to minimize infection risk.
1.Maintaining good health is crucial, and this includes considering mental health as well as physical processes, such as fitness-and-exercise, skin-care, and nutrition.
- The science of water sanitation is vital for the well-being of people who engage in activities like swimming, particularly in public pools where waterborne pathogens like Cryptosporidium, Giardia, norovirus, Shigella, Legionella, and Pseudomonas could potentially be present.
- Adopting a holistic health-and-wellness approach means not only focusing on physical fitness but also understanding the importance of proper nutrition and addressing mental-health concerns, while staying vigilant about potential health risks in recreational environments like swimming pools.
