Summer fun is almost synonymous with water play. But with the number of COVID cases still rising, parents are feeling torn between taking the kids to the pool and playing it safe. As some neighborhood and public pools begin to open up, there are many concerns. Can COVID spread in the pool? After all, we’re learning kids can also be severely impacted by the virus with Kawasaki disease-like symptoms, despite initial reports.
Can COVID Spread in the Pool?
The CDC provides helpful information about how the virus spreads. The virus is not transmitted through chlorinated water, fresh water, or salt water. Therefore, swimming—in a general sense—is not deemed risky. Swimming in chlorinated water is probably your safest bet, because you have the added protection of chlorine, which will likely kill coronavirus (although this has yet to be confirmed). However, if you are near someone in the pool who is carrying the virus, you are at risk. The coronavirus is spread from person to person. If someone is talking, sneezing, or coughing close to you, you can potentially catch it.
How Do We Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 at Pools?
- Only swim close to those in your family/friends group. Stay six to ten feet away from non-family members
- Disinfect surfaces that are used often.
- Try to avoid touching unsanitized surfaces.
- Wash hands or use hand sanitizer after touching lounge chairs, umbrellas, etc.
Swimming is a safe activity as long as the pool that you are using is taking proper precautions. If you have a swimming pool in your backyard, be mindful of who you allow to swim. If you are going to let neighbors swim, it’s important that you follow the proper cleaning procedures, which includes constant cleaning of surfaces, washing hands, or using hand sanitizer.
The point is to exercise caution if you decide to venture to the pool, lake, or the ocean. Continuing to practice social distancing is still important, as is washing your hands. For additional information on chlorine and the coronavirus, visit cdc.gov.
Having COVID symptoms and don’t want to wait in a crowded waiting room? Stop by Hospitality Health ER on Seawall Blvd. in Galveston to be seen immediately.
