IS IT SAFE TO SWIM DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC?
It’s already warm enough to swim in the southernmost areas of the United States and pool season is fast approaching for the rest of the country as we head toward summer. With kids at home for a prolonged period of time and families quickly running out of things to do inside their homes, Latham Pool has received several inquiries about the safety of a backyard swimming pool as the world continues to be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
CAN I CATCH CORONAVIRUS FROM SWIMMING?
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, “There is no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread to humans through the use of pools, hot tubs or spas, or water playgrounds.” Further, the CDC adds that “Conventional water treatment methods that use filtration and disinfection, such as those in most municipal drinking water systems, should remove or inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19.”
IS IT SAFE TO HAVE A POOL PARTY DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC?
Because COVID-19 is a respiratory virus, it is usually spread by droplets of saliva or mucus when a person coughs or sneezes. You’re more likely to catch the virus via frequently touched surfaces, or through close contact with an infected person, and the best way to stay healthy is through the national and local “stay home” and social distancing orders that have been issued. While you’ll be safe swimming in your backyard pool, you should wait until further updates to local social distancing orders before inviting friends, family, or neighbors over for a pool party.
DOES THE CHLORINE USED IN SWIMMING POOLS KILL CORONAVIRUS?
The CDC states that “Proper operation, maintenance, and disinfection (e.g., with chlorine and bromine) or pools, hot tubs or spas, and water playgrounds should inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19.” While you are unlikely to become infected with Coronavirus by swimming in your backyard pool, it’s always wise to use your best judgement by testing your chemicals at home, or through a pool professional. If a backyard swimming pool is well maintained, the standard chemicals used for regular cleaning and maintenance will remove or inactivate the virus.
For the latest and most up-to-date information on the Coronavirus and COVID-19 please visit the CDC website. All content found on the Latham Pool Products, Inc. website and social media accounts, including text, images, audio, or other formats were created for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice, instruction from the CDC or WHO, or the federal government because of something you have read on this website.
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