What health risk is associated with improperly maintained swimming pools?

Improperly maintained swimming pools can pose significant health risks, notably leading to infectious disease outbreaks. When pool water is not adequately disinfected or maintained, harmful pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites can thrive. These microorganisms can cause a variety of illnesses. For instance, recreational water illnesses (RWIs) like gastroenteritis, skin infections, and respiratory infections can spread when swimmers are exposed to contaminated water.

When the chemical balance in the pool is off, or when sanitation protocols are not followed, it increases the likelihood of these pathogens being present. Therefore, the risk of infectious disease outbreaks is a critical concern for public health professionals overseeing swimming pool safety and hygiene. This awareness is key to ensuring the safety of pool users and preventing health crises associated with contaminated water.