Alright, everyone, let’s get straight to the point: if you’ve had diarrhea recently, please, for the love of all that is decent, stay out of the pool. The same applies if you’ve been throwing up. Honestly, it’s best to avoid public spaces altogether if any liquid has been coming from your body in the near past.
I don’t mean to be graphic, but it’s crucial to emphasize a message that seems clear to most, yet is bafflingly misunderstood by some. The CDC has issued a yearly reminder about this issue just in time for summer, as part of their “Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report” (a rather unsettling title, isn’t it?), warning of an increase in cryptosporidium cases. This nasty parasite can contaminate pool water when someone with the infection excretes it.
In 2016, there were at least 32 documented cases of cryptosporidium (often called Crypto) linked to pools or water parks, a significant jump from 16 cases in 2014. This trend is alarming, and while the numbers might seem small, the implications of contracting Crypto are severe.
Cryptosporidium can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting that may last up to three weeks. Furthermore, it poses a significant risk of dehydration, especially for young children and older adults. One of the challenges with Crypto is its resilience; it can survive in chlorine-treated water for up to 10 days. Just a small sip of contaminated pool water is enough to make anyone ill.
While not everyone plans to drink pool water, parents know that it’s nearly impossible to prevent kids from accidentally ingesting it while splashing around. Therefore, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that we don’t bring sick children into public spaces like pools.
The CDC also offers some straightforward advice for pool-goers this summer. Key recommendations include:
- Avoiding the pool if you’ve had diarrhea recently.
- Waiting at least two weeks after a Crypto infection before swimming again.
- Showering before entering the water to remove germs.
- Ensuring kids take frequent bathroom breaks.
- Regularly checking swim diapers for any mess.
Before you decide to forgo pools altogether this summer (which, honestly, I’m tempted to do myself after reflecting on this), remember that properly maintained pools can eliminate most germs and are generally safe. However, not all pools adhere to strict sanitation standards, and let’s face it—not everyone practices good hygiene. When it comes to lakes or other natural bodies of water, proceed with caution: you’re on your own there.
Fortunately, most people are aware enough to avoid bringing their sick selves or children into communal water. Therefore, outbreaks of unpleasant illnesses in pools are relatively rare. We shouldn’t spend our summer fretting over such concerns; instead, let’s focus on enjoying fun-filled moments in the water.
However, I can’t shake the thought of a pool contaminated with diarrhea. I understand that sometimes unpleasant surprises happen, and you may not realize you or your child isn’t feeling well until you’re already at the pool. I can sympathize with that scenario.
But for anyone who thinks it’s even slightly acceptable to enter a public pool after experiencing diarrhea that day or even a couple of days prior, I hope to never cross paths with you. And I certainly don’t want to see you at my local pool this summer.
For more insightful tips on family health and wellness, take a look at this excellent resource on treating infertility and consider checking out our post on at-home insemination kits for those on a different family journey. For further reading on related topics, visit Modern Family Blog.
Summary
It’s crucial to prioritize public health by avoiding pool use if you’ve had diarrhea or vomiting recently. The CDC emphasizes the risks associated with cryptosporidium, a parasite that can thrive in contaminated water. Observing hygiene practices in public pools can help keep everyone safe and healthy.