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Taking a refreshing and refreshing swim in a lake or pool is one of the pleasures of the summer and sometimes a necessary escape from the sweltering heat.
But two recent federal health studies have found that some waters are better than others, at least when it comes to avoiding water-borne diseases. .
Of the 633 outbreaks of bacteria, viruses, or other diseases that occurred nationwide, almost 80 percent 100 came from water treated with chlorine or other chemicals in pools, spas or wading pools. Most diseases cause intestinal problems and diarrhea.
Studies, which followed outbreaks from 2000 to 2014, revealed 493 outbreaks where 27,219 people were sick and eight died from pathogens in recreational water treated with chemicals. Figures do not include illnesses related to private swimming pools or cases where only one person has fallen ill.
In comparison, there were only 140 outbreaks linked to lakes, rivers or swimming holes, with 4,958 people falling ill and two deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
"People have a false sense of security when they go to the pool," said Trisha Robinson, a supervising epidemiologist with the Minnesota Department of Health. "We have the impression that chlorine kills everything, it is not the case".
In Minnesota, 51 outbreaks of recreational water related diseases have been reported over the last 10 years. Only nine came from pathogens in lakes or rivers. However, compared to recent outbreaks of foodborne illness badociated with lettuce, pre-cut melon, raw vegetables, cereals, eggs and restaurant employees who do not wash their hands, the risk of contracting a waterborne disease is relatively weak. .
In Minnesota, public pools must be licensed and are often inspected annually. Regulators check the safety equipment, plumbing and chemicals.
"If they do not meet the chlorine level, we would make a closure on it until they meet the requirement," said Ryan Krick, a supervisor of the Environmental Health at the Minneapolis Department of Health.
Pool operators are also required to check chemical levels daily and to keep a record of added chemicals.
But add people to the pools, and that's where the problems begin.
"It's really a communal bathtub," Robinson said. "You share the water and the germs with all the others."
Chlorine and other chemicals help neutralize some things, but many outbreaks have been caused by Cryptosporidium, a tiny parasite that can survive in chlorinated water for up to seven days.
The source of the problem is human fecal matter. While an accident done by a baby is the nightmare scenario, even the most demanding adults can be the source if they do not shower before entering the pool.
"We can make a lot of people sick if we do not take precautions," Robinson said.
No one who has not showered should swim in a lake either, but the size of most lakes means that microscopic bacteria and parasites disperse, thus reducing the risk of infection even if someone accidentally swallows water.
Most water-borne diseases cause gastric and intestinal symptoms, including diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, and vomiting.
Tragically, Minnesota has seen two deaths in children caused by a waterborne amoeba that enters the nose and attacks the brain. Although rare, it is more risky in shallow, warm lake waters. Parents should teach children to try to keep the water out of their noses or mouths, Robinson said.
Also, people should avoid swimming in areas contaminated with animal droppings. Some local and state health departments monitor the beaches for contamination.
"Swimming is a very good activity," Robinson said. "No matter where you swim, try not to swallow the water."
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