The Minnesota Department of Health is warning people to take steps to prevent illnesses caused by recreational water this summer. People swimming in contaminated water can and have become ill from  Cryptosporidium, E. coli O157:H7, norovirus, Shigella, and Giardia.
When people are sick with a diarrheal illness, just a tiny speck of feces can contain millions of germs and contaminate a pool. Chlorine unfortunately is not a foolproof method of killing these parasites and bacteria. Last year, there were a record number of 11 recreational waterborne outbreaks in Minnesota, resulting in almost 200 documented illnesses. All but one of those outbreaks occurred in treated water.
In addition, there were two outbreaks linked to splash pads for the first time last year. Even though there is no standing water, the spray of water rinses contaminants off a person. Then that water is recirculated and sprayed on others. Follow swimming safety rules for splash pads too.
To prevent these illnesses, follow these rules. Don’t swim when you are sick with diarrhea or another illness. Don’t swallow water, whether you swim in a pool or a lake. Shower with soap before swimming to remove pathogenic bacteria. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the bathroom and changing diapers. Take children on bathroom breaks frequently. Change diapers frequently. And change diapers in a bathroom, not near the water. You can find more information on this topic at the Minnesota Department of Health web page.
