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The Grossest Things You Didn't Know About Public Pools

The Grossest Things You Didn't Know About Public Pools
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The Active Times

The Active Times
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The summer is here and millions of people are heading out to public swimming pools to cool off and have some fun in the sun.

Click Here to see Things You Didn't Know About Public Pools

1 in 5 adults pees in the pool
As crazy as it may seem, many adults have admitted to relieving themselves in public swimming pools. A 2012 survey conducted by the Water Quality & Health Council found that one in five U.S. adults urinates in the pool.Photo Credit: ShutterstockClick Here to See Things You Didn’t Know About Public Pools
Giardia
Giardia is a germ that causes diarrhea. It’s found in the fecal matter of a person who has been infected by it. It is spread by swallowing water and it has a tough outer shell that allows it to survive for up to 45 minutes, even in properly chlorinated pools, according to the cdc.Photo Credit: Shutterstock
There is certain bacteria that is resistant to chlorine
Cryptosporidium is an infectious bacteria that is not easily killed by chlorine. It can cause gastroenteritis outbreaks. According to research, “a total of 78 recreational water-associated outbreaks, affecting 4,412 people, were reported from 2005 to 2006, which is the largest number of outbreaks reported in a two-year period.”Photo Credit: PixabayClick Here to See Things You Didn’t Know About Public Pools
RWIs
Also known as Recreational Water Illness, it is caused by the spreading of germs in contaminated water in swimming pools, hot tubs and water parks. According to the CDC, RWIs can also be caused by chemicals in the water or chemicals that evaporate from the water, which in turn cause indoor air quality problems. They can cause a number of health problems, some of which include gastrointestinal, skin, respiratory, eye, ear, neurologic and wound infections.Photo Credit: Pixabay
People swim without bathing
Many people swim without bathing first. This can cause a number of bacteria’s to spread throughout the water. When they don’t shower before swimming they may release feces particles, pee chemicals and sweat, which can all cause a number of health issues. Click Here to See Things You Didn’t Know About Public PoolsPhoto Credit: Pixabay

While swimming in public pools and participating in water related activities are great ways to stay in shape, they have potential health risks as well.

A study by the CDC concluded nearly 8 in 10 public swimming pools failed routine safety inspections, according to the LATimes.

The next public pool you dive in will contain pee and maybe even some fecal matter. You may be at risk for E. coli or Recreational Water Illness.

Educate yourself about the gross things lurking around in public swimming pools and take safety precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Click Here to see the Original Story on The Active Times

- Nicole Dossantos The Active Times

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