3 Infections You Can Get at Public Swimming Pools

For many of us, the only way that we will have access to swimming is through public swimming pools, run by the community, the gym or a water park. While public swimming pools may offer recreational opportunities, there are some downsides to them.  

Because you and your family will be in the water with numerous other people who may or may not be keeping themselves clean and hygienic, there are many infections and diseases that you can acquire from public swimming pools. 

Here are three of the most common infections that you could face:

E. Coli may be the most common infection that you could get from public swimming pools.  These infections cause intestinal upset, including diarrhea.  If a swimming pool becomes contaminated, this infection can easily be passed on to other swimmers.

Dysentery is another intestinal infection that can be picked up in public swimming pools.  Effects of it include fever, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.  As with E. Coli, it can easily be transmitted in swimming pool water.

Hepatitis A is often transmitted through sewage water, but can be transmitted through crowded swimming pools.  Symptoms include jaundiced skin, nausea, vomiting, fever and fatigue.

The majority of the infections that you can get from public swimming pools will be of the intestinal variety, and their effects can range from mild to severe.  If proper precautions are taken and the public swimming pools are properly treated with chlorine, the chances of getting these infections are fairly low.

Do not become too afraid of going to public swimming pools – which offer numerous other health benefits. Just be sure to be aware that illnesses are out there.