Should you worry about catching coronavirus in swimming pools? Here’s what experts say
Is it really summer if you can’t go for a swim?
Pools across the U.S. remain largely closed in response to the pandemic, though a few have started welcoming swimmers — but under tight restrictions. The re-openings have raised questions about how safe it is to take a dip.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says there’s no need to worry, as “there’s no evidence that the virus that causes COVID-19 can be spread to people through the water in pools, hot tubs, spas or water play areas.” Pools properly maintained and treated with chlorine and bromine should be effective at killing the virus in the water, experts say.
Still, swimmers shouldn’t get too comfortable.
While the water may be safe, the CDC says pool-goers should protect themselves from others by practicing social distancing and good hygiene when visiting recreational water venues. Experts also advise visitors to bring their own disinfecting wipes to clean frequently touched surfaces, such as pool chairs and water fountains, WKYC reports.
Many pools won’t reopen, even as the weather warms. Meanwhile, some communities have gotten creative amid plans to welcome back swimmers.
An aquatic and fitness complex in Coral Springs, Florida, plans to open on Memorial Day but with several restrictions in place to keep visitors safe. For one, face masks must be worn at all times outside the pool and swimmers are required to pre-register if they want to get a few laps in on the short course lanes, according to guidelines posted on the center’s website.
Also, only one swimmer is allowed per lane.
A executive order issued by Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp last week allowed public swimming pools across the state to reopen under similar limitations, 11 Alive News reported. Pools must comply “with all applicable requirements” to reopen, which include social distancing orders and bans on large groups of 10 or more in a single space where it’s hard to maintain a safe distance, according to the station.
In the case of summer camps, operators can take campers out for a swim “if swimming facilities are available, allowing each group to swim only once per day and staggering swimming times to avoid crowding at the swimming facilities,” 11 Alive reported, citing guidance from the governor’s office.
Water parks and attractions like Typhoon Texas near Katy, Texas, remains closed to the public. However, the park said it’s taking steps to make sure it is ready to reopen as soon as it gets the green light, according to KRTK. Park manager Evan Barnett said he hopes the state will give the go ahead to open by Memorial Day weekend.
“We are definitely going to recommend that when people are here enjoying the park they wear a mask,” Barnett told the news station.
Tables and chairs will be spaced father apart to ensure proper social distancing, and lines for water rides will be staggered, among other safeguards, according to the general manager.
To ensure the safety of guests, restrooms will be cleaned hourly with hand sanitizing stations installed in dressing rooms and other locations around the park, KTRK reported.
This story was originally published May 19, 2020 at 12:13 PM with the headline "Should you worry about catching coronavirus in swimming pools? Here’s what experts say."