The heat of the summer is here, and many are going to beaches and pools to cool off, but are there germs waiting in those swimming areas? Many people think of fun in the soon and the pool or beach. However, it is important to remember that there are some bacteria that a person can bring home after a day spent at the pool. Read on to learn more about what those illnesses are, and the precautions one can take to eliminate the possibility of bringing them home.
Healthy Tip Tuesday is brought to you in partnership with Trinity Health Systems.
More than 7 million Americans get sick every year from diseases spread through water, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
What illnesses can spread through the water:
- E-coli
- Norovirus
- Shigella
- Giardia
- Cryptosporidium
How can a person avoid germs in the water:
- Keeping the water out of their mouth!
- Shower after swimming
- Do not swim if you diarrhea
- Pay attention to water quality advisories issued for Ohio beaches by the Ohio Department of Health and other public agencies.
Most people with healthy immune systems won’t get sick from contaminated water. Children younger than 6 months, older adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems are most at risk.
