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Salmonella from Swimming Pools

By Pritzker | Ruohonen

Although chlorine does effectively kill Salmonella, it is still possible to contract the bacteria while swimming in a pool. It takes time to kill Salmonella with chlorine.  Also, failure to chlorinate in a timely manner or cross contamination with other pools can lead to contraction of Salmonella from swimming pools.

In swimming pools, fecal matter washes from the bodies of swimmers into the water. If someone defecates into a pool, the amount of bacteria in the water increases drastically. If the contaminated water is ingested and salmonella is present in the fecal matter, the bacterial infection can be contracted.

Salmonella can also be transferred to humans by contaminated animal feces. Open, outdoor pools may attract turtles and birds looking for a source of water. If the pool water is contaminated by these animals, humans who later swim in the pool may be able to contract the illness.

We represent victims of Salmonella outbreaks.  If you have contracted Salmonella after swimming in a pool, please contact us.

Salmonella Symptoms

Salmonella usually begins 12-72 hours after exposure although at times it may take up to a week before symptoms manifest. Symptoms usually include:

•      Diarrhea
•      Abdominal pain and cramping
•      Fever

Salmonellosis, the infection caused by the bacteria, Salmonella, usually lasts for 4-7 days and most people who have the infection recover without treatment. However, it is possible for the infection to spread from the intestines into the blood stream resulting in complications that must be treated with antibiotics.

Most often, infants, the elderly and people with immune deficiencies have the most complications from Salmonella.

Salmonella Prevention

The best way to prevent the contraction of Salmonella from swimming pools is through continuous filtration and disinfection. Multiple pools should not share filtrations systems with each other, especially if kiddy pools are present in the pool complex.

Individuals can also prevent the spread and transmission of salmonella by:

•    Using good hygiene before entering a swimming pool
•    Avoiding swimming if already ill with diarrhea
•    Not swallowing pool water
•    Not changing diapers near pool areas
  

Sites Referenced

"Salmonellosis (Salmonella)." Minnesota Department of Health. 05 October 2007. Minnesota Department of Health. 25 Jun 2008 .

"Salmonellosis." Centers for Disease Control. 21 May 2008. Centers for Disease Control. 25 Jun 2008.

Full post as published by Food Poisoning Law Blog on June 25, 2008 (boomark / email).