Tips For Avoiding Diarrheal Illnesses In Minnesota Lakes, Pools

Lakes, pools, hot tubs, splash pads, and water parks can easily be contaminated by a person with diarrhea. Chlorine doesn’t kill germs instantly, which means all kinds of diseases can spread even in properly maintained pools, according to the Minnesota Department of Health.

The extremely hot weather forecasted for Memorial Day weekend means families will spend many hours in the water.

To help protect yourself and other swimmers, the MDH says to:

• Stay out of the water if you have diarrhea
• Don’t swallow the water
• Shower before and after swimming

Parents and caregivers of young children should take children on frequent bathroom breaks when swimming. Waiting to hear "I have to go" may mean that it’s already too late.

Remember to change diapers in changing rooms, not by the pool. Wash your hands and the child’s hands thoroughly after changing diapers.

Recreational water can also cause a wide variety of infections, including skin, ear, respiratory, eye, and wound infections. To help reduce the risk of hot tub rash (Pseudomonas dermatitis/folliculitis):

• Remove your swimsuit and shower with soap after getting out of the water.
• Clean your swimsuit after getting out of the water.

To reduce the risk of swimmer’s ear (otitis externa):

• Keep your ears as dry as possible by using a bathing cap, ear plugs, or custom-fitted swim molds when swimming.
• Dry your ears thoroughly after swimming or showering.
• Don’t put objects in your ear canal (including cotton-tip swabs, pencils, paperclips, or fingers).
• Don’t try to remove ear wax. Ear wax helps protect your ear canal from infection.
• Consult your healthcare provider about using ear drops after swimming.

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