Frequently Asked Question

Can I get sick from using a swimming pool?

Swimming is a fun and healthy activity. However, contaminated water can still spread germs that cause recreational water illnesses (RWIs). RWIs cause a wide variety of symptoms, including skin, ear, respiratory and eye infections. The most commonly reported RWI is diarrhea.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that the number of RWI outbreaks has increased over the past decade. The CDC also warns that children, pregnant women and people with compromised immune systems are particularly at risk of more severe illness if infected.