It’s time for the nice, relaxing summer swim season. As you gear up to dive in, I want to remind you about key steps you can take to prevent water illnesses as part of national Recreational Water Illness Prevention Week.
Being aware of recreational water illnesses and practicing healthy swimming behaviors will go a long way in stopping the transmission of these illnesses. Infectious germs on and in swimmers’ bodies can end up in recreational waters, which can make other people sick.
To avoid water-borne illnesses in both pools and natural waters in coastal and inland areas, follow these simple tips. Do not swim or allow children to swim if you or they have diarrhea. Avoid swallowing pool water or getting pool water in your mouth. Shower before swimming. Wash your hands after using the toilet or changing diapers. Place tight-fitting swim diapers on children. Check diapers before entering the water. Take children on bathroom breaks. Change children’s diapers often and in a bathroom, not at the poolside.
For more information about Recreational Water Illness Prevention Week and healthy swimming, visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Web site at: www.cdc.gov/healthyswimming. For North Carolina specific information, visit www.deh.enr.state.nc.us/ehs/pti_healthyswimming.htm, or contact the N.C. Division of Environmental Health at (919) 733-2884.