Help protect your family at the pool

This summer millions of families will enjoy staying cool in swimming pools and waterparks. But did you know that germs can contaminate the water in pools even if it is treated with chlorine? Healthy swimming behaviors are needed to protect you and your family from Recreational Water Illnesses (RWIs) which are spread by swimming in contaminated water.

“RWIs are spread by accidentally swallowing water that has been contaminated with fecal matter,” explains Rose Cantu, RN, Infection Control at Prairie du Chien Memorial Hospital. “Remember, you share the water with everyone in the pool. Germs causing RWIs are killed by chlorine, but chlorine doesn’t work right away. It takes time to kill germs. Some germs are resistant to chlorine and can live in pools for days. That is why even the best maintained pools can spread illness. In addition, high-risk groups such as the young, the elderly, the pregnant, and the immunosuppressed should also be advised about RWI prevention and healthy swimming behaviors.­”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends these six tips to stop germs from causing illness at the pool.

1. Don’t swim when you have diarrhea. This is especially important for children in diapers. You can spread germs into the water and make other people sick.

2. Don’t swallow the pool water. In fact, try your best to avoid getting water in your mouth.

3. Practice good hygiene. Take a shower before swimming and wash your hands after using the restroom or changing diapers. You can protect others by remembering that germs on your body end up in the water.

4. Take your children on bathroom breaks often. Waiting to hear “I have to go” may mean that it’s too late.

5. Change diapers in a bathroom and not at poolside. Germs can spread to surfaces and objects in and around the pool and spread illness.

6. Cleanse your child thoroughly with each diaper change or toileting.