If you're going to a water park to avoid the heatwave... Be careful not to catch 'this disease'

Diarrheal disease is the most common illness that can occur at swimming pools. Although pools use disinfectants to manage water quality, microorganisms like Cryptosporidium in the water cannot be eliminated by chlorine disinfection. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends avoiding swimming if you have diarrhea. This is because microorganisms such as norovirus or E. coli can still be shed for several days to two weeks after diarrhea subsides. Especially, pathogens originating from feces can be transmitted through water, so thorough showering before and after swimming is essential. Additionally, swimmers should avoid swallowing pool water or letting it contact their mouth. If diarrhea occurs after swimming, it is important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.

To prevent the spread of germs, disinfected swimming pool water can cause skin troubles. Continuous exposure to chemical components such as chlorine can make the skin rough and dry. It can also trigger acne, psoriasis, eczema, and other conditions. Especially for those with atopic dermatitis, symptoms may worsen, so extra caution is needed. People with allergic skin conditions tend to have sensitive skin and may react even to low levels of irritation. Therefore, individuals with sensitive skin should avoid staying in the pool water for extended periods. After swimming, it is important to wash thoroughly to remove any remaining residues. If your skin becomes dry, itchy, or red after swimming, you should visit a dermatologist.

Epidemic keratoconjunctivitis is also a disease that is easily contracted after water play. It is a disease caused by adenovirus infection and is transmitted through contaminated water or contact with patients already infected with adenovirus. When epidemic keratoconjunctivitis occurs, the eyes become bloodshot and a foreign body sensation is felt. Swelling, pain, and itching are also common symptoms. Because this disease is highly contagious, if there are any symptoms after water play, contact with others should be avoided. When engaging in water activities, always wear goggles to protect the eyes, and avoid wearing circle lenses or contact lenses. Wearing lenses can prevent proper oxygen supply to the cornea and increase susceptibility to bacterial infections. Also, be careful not to rub or touch your eyes with unwashed hands.

Women should be cautious of vaginitis after swimming in the pool. Vaginitis is an inflammation caused by bacterial infection in the vagina, which worsens during the hot and humid summer months. In particular, the activity of bacteria becomes more active in water, and since it is a fungal infection, the risk of infection increases with more people. Moreover, leaving the reproductive organs wet with water makes it easier for fungi and other bacteria to proliferate. Therefore, after swimming, it is important to carefully dry the reproductive area completely and wear underwear. If there is an increase in vaginal discharge, a strong odor, or itching after swimming, vaginitis should be suspected.