Charlotte, NC – Health officials in Mecklenburg County today remind all residents that, with the outdoor season upon us, healthy swimming behaviors can ward off illnesses linked with recreational swimming waters.
Did you know that germs can live, even in pool water treated with chlorine? Learning about recreational water illnesses (RWIs), which are spread by swimming in contaminated waters, can protect one from illness.
This advice comes as local, state and national health agencies join together in support of Recreational Water Illness Prevention Week, May 18-24.
"Many enjoy the warm North Carolina months with a swim in the pool, pond, river or ocean," said Wynn Mabry, director of the Mecklenburg County Health Department. "Simple actions like taking a shower before your swim can go a long way to ensure a disease-free summer."
The Health Department offers these important tips to keep your summer healthy and safe:
- Do not swim or allow children to swim if either has diarrhea.
- Do not swallow pool water or get it in your mouth.
- Shower before swimming (children too!).
- Wash your hands after using the toilet or changing diapers.
- Children should wear tight-fitting swim diapers, and diapers should be checked before entering the water.
- Take children in bathroom breaks.
- Change children's diapers often and in a bathroom, not at poolside.
Awareness of recreational water illnesses and healthy swimming behaviors play an important role in stopping their transmission.
This year's theme focuses on pool chemicals and injuries associated with them. Pool chemicals make the water safe from germs but can cause serious injury if not properly handled. This leads to thousands of emergency room visits each year.
Public pool operators and residential pool owners can protect themselves and swimmers by taking some key steps.
- ALWAYS secure pool chemicals: Keep children and animals away.
- ALWAYS read product name and directions before each use.
- ALWAYS use the right protective gear, such as safety glasses and gloves, when handling pool chemicals.
- NEVER mix chlorine products with each other, acid, or other substances.
Following simple health guidelines like good hygiene and avoiding getting water in one's mouth, along with prompt medical attention if one does become ill, can help protect swimmers from a variety of hazards.
For more information about waterborne illness and its causes and preventions:
