Swimming Pools

Swimming Pool IndoorThe Minnesota Department of Health defines a public pool as those operated by any person whether the person is the owner, operator, lessee or concessionaire.  Public pools are located in parks, schools, lodging facilities, clubs, camps and other establishments used by the public. They include swimming pools, spa pools/hot tubs, water parks, plunge pools with flume slides, wave pools, therapy pools, splash pads and interactive water features.  Residential pools are not considered to be public pools.

Recreational Water Illnesses

Recreational Water Illnesses (RWIs) are illnesses that are spread by swallowing, breathing, or having contact with contaminated water from:

  • Lakes
  • Rivers
  • Spas
  • Swimming beaches
  • Swimming pools
  • Other recreational waters

Symptoms

RWIs can cause a wide variety of symptoms, including:

  • Ear infection
  • Eye infection
  • Gastrointestinal infection
  • Neurologic infection
  • Respiratory infection
  • Skin infection
  • Wound infection

Diarrhea is the most common infection reported.