Stay Safe from Recreational Water Illnesses

The causing factors of recreational water illnesses are germs and chemicals found in swimming water. These are frequently spread by swallowing, breathing in mists or aerosols of, or having contact with contaminated water in pools, hot tubs, water parks, water play areas, interactive fountains, lakes, rivers or oceans.

The illness can also be caused by chemicals in water or chemicals that turn into gas in the air and cause air quality problems at indoor water sites. One must be aware with the basic facts about RWIs to make a difference between enjoying at water sites and developing a rash, diarrhea or any other serious illnesses. RWIs are a variety of infections which includes gastrointestinal, skin, ear, respiratory, ear, neurologic and wound infections. Diarrhea is the most common type of RWI. Diarrhea can be caused by micro-organisms such as Crypto (Cryptosporidium), Giardia, Shigella, norovirus and E.coliO157:H7.

Within past two decades, it has been found that RWIs has substantially increased. To maintain a healthy pool, it is required to keep chlorine at recommended levels.

By: Bhavna Sharma

Content: www.cdc.gov