Public Pools Are in the Crapper (Literally)
The next time you’re thinking about taking a dip in your local community pool, consider this: It’s probably full of poop.
OK, so you might not actually find some poop floating around in the public pool, but the bacteria that’s likely to be brushing up on you will basically make it seem as though you’re taking a bath in a poop-filled basin.
Grossed out yet? You should be.
Just a few years ago, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released findings that there was genetic material from E. Coli bacteria in 58% of public pools they tested during the summer. E. Coli bacteria are generally found in human guts and fecal mater... Yes, that means poop.
They also found Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria, which can cause skin rashes and ear infections, in 59% of pools tested.
Why is there so much poop in our pools? Basically, because people don’t rinse off before jumping in the pool -- and, of course, the random pool defecation incident (you can blame the moms who toss their toddlers into the pool until their diapers are bulging for that one). According to Live Science, the average person has 0.14 grams of fecal matter on their “perianal surface” (ie. around their butt).
Keeping poop out of our public pools and off swimmers' bodies should really be a priority, especially given how great it is to have access to a free pool. How can we do that? Well, firstly and obviously, people should really shower before they hop into the pool, and don’t swallow the water when you do hop in. Also, avoid swimming if you have diarrhea. If you have kids you’re bringing to the pool, take them on a bathroom break every 30-60 minutes, and babies should have their diapers changed in the bathrooms, not poolside.
Poop Stats
Average person carries 0.14 grams fecal matter on skin, transfers to water without pre-swim shower.
Fortunately, while chlorine doesn’t immediately kill all bacteria, a pool that has its pH and chlorine levels strictly regulated will take care of the problem fairly quickly.
Prevention Tips
Shower before swimming, no swallowing water, bathroom breaks every 30-60 min for kids.
Oh, sorry! Were you excited about the opening of pool season? We were, too, so let’s all just agree not to poop on each others’ fun. Deal?
[Pic via Flickr - si_si_ay]
