The US Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control (CDC), stresses the importance of keeping recreational waters safe because even properly treated pool water can spread germs. Pool chemicals won’t work right away and any pee, poop, sweat or dirt in the pool will use up its germ-killing power.
They suggest the following easy steps to help keep germs out of the water and stay healthy:
- Stay out of the water if experiencing diarrhea.
- Shower before getting into the water.
- Never pee or poop in the water.
- Don’t swallow the water.
The CDC also suggests taking each and every child out of the water at least once every hour, and doing the following:
- Take bathroom breaks.
- Check diapers and change them in a bathroom or diaper-changing area—not poolside—to keep germs away from the pool.
- Reapply sunscreen.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
For more information, visit www.cdc.gov/healthyswimming. Or locally, call Veterans Memorial Hospital Community and Home Care, Allamakee Public Health, at 563-568-5660.
