Well, the constant thunderstorms and sweltering weather can only mean one thing, folks – summer is here. To me summer is one of those seasons that you either really like or really don’t like. For a variety of reasons I enjoy the summer – mainly if I have constant access to some cold lemonade and air conditioning. With that said, another way that plenty of people choose to enjoy the summer as well as cool down is with the vast expanse of water known as the swimming pool.
The source of failed cannonball attempts and swimming lessons, the pool is at the top of the list for summertime locations. But before you take a dip, dive or leap into the refreshingly cool waters, let’s take a look at some health concerns that you may want to be aware of before you take the family.
According to a recent survey by the Water Quality & Health Council (WQHC), 84 percent of Americans believe their fellow swimmers participate in unhygienic pool behavior and almost half (47%) admit to actually doing one or more behaviors that contribute to an unhealthy pool. Unclean water can lead to recreational water illnesses – diarrhea, respiratory illness, and ear and skin infections. Children, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems can suffer from more severe illness if infected. According to the CDC, these illnesses are on the rise. Between 2005 and 2006, 78 outbreaks were reported in 31 states – the largest number of outbreaks ever in a two-year period.
Swimming is a fun and healthy activity for old and young alike. Proper water chlorination helps protect swimmers from germs that can make swimmers sick,” said Michele Hlavsa, Epidemiologist in the Division of Parasitic Diseases for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “But swimmers also have role to play in maintaining a clean and healthy pool. Unhygienic behavior brings germs into the pool and makes it harder for chlorine to do its job.
Last month, CNN had an article regarding the issue of urination in pools and you wouldn’t believe which swimming idol also admits to doing the same! Ok, well maybe you would believe it but nonetheless, this is no laughing matter.
For more information on identifying and maintaining a healthy pool, as well as healthy swim behaviors, please visit www.healthypools.org and www.cdc.gov/healthyswimming.
