Where are RWIs found?
RWIs can be spread through use of swimming pools, hot tubs, decorative water fountains, oceans, lakes, and rivers.
Swimming Pools, Waterparks, Spray Features
The most common illness spread through use of swimming pools is diarrhea. If swimmers are ill with diarrhea, the germs that they carry can contaminate the water if they have an "accident" in the pool. On average, people have about 0.14 grams of feces on their bottoms which, when rinsed off, can contaminate recreational water. When people are ill with diarrhea, their stool can contain millions of germs. Therefore, swimming when ill with diarrhea can easily contaminate large pools or waterparks. As a result, if someone swallows water that has been contaminated with feces, he/she may become sick. Many of these diarrhea-causing germs do not have to be swallowed in large amounts to cause illness. Remember that standing water is not necessary for RWIs to spread so even spray decks can become contaminated (the water is just in a collection tank underground) and spread illness. To ensure that most germs are killed, chlorine or other disinfectant levels and pH should be checked regularly as part of good pool operation.
Hot Tubs
Skin infections like "hot tub rash" are the most common RWIs spread through hot tubs and spas. Chlorine and other disinfectant levels evaporate more quickly because of the higher temperature of the water in the tubs. Respiratory illnesses are also associated with hot tub use if the hot tub is not well maintained. Because of this it is important to check disinfectant levels even more regularly than in swimming pools. "Hot tub rash" can also be spread in pools and at the lake or beach.
Decorative Water Fountains
Not all decorative or interactive fountains are chlorinated or filtered. Therefore, when people, especially diaper-aged children, play in the water, they can contaminate the water with fecal matter. Swallowing this contaminated water can then cause diarrheal illness.
Lakes, Rivers, and Oceans
See also: Health Promotion Materials
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Page last modified: May 24, 2007