Health & Fitness
BLOG: Recreational Water Illness
Ever get a rash from swimming? Your pool could be making you ill! Read on to find out more.
Your swimming pool water is shared by everyone. Good reason to learn about swimming pool water quality.
Properly maintained water is clear and sanitary, and the main drain of the pool or spa should be able to be seen clearly in the deepest part of the pool. RWI, or Recreational Water Illness, is when your pool water quality actually makes you ill!
How does this happen? Swallowing, breathing or coming in contact with contaminated water. Taking a closer look you will see that it can be pool operator error or swimmer error. It is your responsibility to get your pool filter cleaned regularly and have the pool chemicals checked/added consistently.
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The chlorine demand increases when you have high bather activity as well as increased heat from spas. Your pool guest should also shower prior to swimming so the skin oils and dirt are removed. Chlorine will be bound up by the dirt/oils and won't be available. Lastly, don’t swim when having diarrhea episodes and use swim diapers on babies.
The germs causing RWI, or Recreational Water Illness, are Cryptosporidium, E Coli, Giardia, 157:H7, Norovirus, and Shigella. Cryptosporidium is from diarrhea episodes and is a higher risk issue as Crypto can stay in the pool for days after chlorinating. Skin rashes and ear infections from your pool are caused by Pseudomonas Aeruginosa. A severe pneumonia from Leginonellosis or Legionnaires disease is caused by the mist in a spa that’s been poorly maintained. Several years back the Playboy Mansion had a severe outbreak caused by this disease.
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Keeping your swimming pool operating without issues is always a tough job. Chlorine is the disinfectant of choice, however, it can take from several minuets to days to rid your pool and make it healthy once again. Professional pool operators can keep your pool water healthy as they should be Certified. Make sure your family and guest are practicing good hygiene and are not ill when swimming. Lastly, test your water often and make it a priority or contact a professional with questions. Call Dianne at 949-510-4743
