During the summer season, many people go to swimming pools to relax and support a healthy lifestyle. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
However, not thinking enough about the hygiene condition of the water can pose health risks. There are harmful bacteria and parasites in the water of swimming pools that may potentially harm the human body.
While swimming pools can be beneficial for physical and mental health, if not managed properly, they can become a source of various infections. Pools are usually disinfected with chlorine, but some microorganisms, particularly the cryptosporidium parasite, are resistant to chlorine and can survive in water for a long time.
This parasite poses a serious risk, especially to children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. Even after the symptoms of infection have passed, the parasite can remain in the body, increasing the risk of contaminating the water for everyone entering the pool.
Additionally, staphylococcus bacteria can cause skin infections. The external ear inflammation known as "swimmer's ear" occurs as a result of prolonged exposure to water in the pool.
Wet and warm changing rooms provide a favorable environment for the spread of fungal infections. One less common but dangerous parasite is acanthamoeba, which can lead to eye infections and loss of vision.
While chlorine is an effective agent for killing many bacteria and viruses in water, the cryptosporidium parasite is resistant to normal levels of chlorine and can survive in water for up to a week. Moreover, the "chlorine smell" in the pool is actually a compound called chloramine, formed from the reaction of chlorine with sweat, urine, and other waste.
This substance can irritate the eyes and throat and may cause diseases like asthma in pool staff. Swimmers are advised to follow these health recommendations: take a shower before swimming, try not to swallow water, avoid going to the pool if feeling unwell or recently having diarrhea, pay attention to the hygienic condition of the pool, and supervise children while swimming.
These rules help maintain health and reduce the risk of infections. Experts believe that properly managed swimming pools that adhere to hygiene rules minimize health risks.
The preparedness of pool operators, constant monitoring of water pH and chlorine levels, as well as prompt measures are crucial in this regard. Especially in Uzbekistan, using pools during the hot summer days plays an important role in maintaining the health of the population and increasing physical activity.
