Most of us are aware of the safety risks associated with swimming, but we may not recognize unseen dangers in the water, such as parasites and bacteria.
The Nashville swimming pool accident lawyers at Ponce Law explain that one of the waterborne pathogens swimmers should be concerned about is a parasite called Cryptosporidium—otherwise known as Crypto. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say that the number of diagnosed cases of Crypto contracted from swimming pools has increased by more than double since 2004.
Experts contend that pool maintenance regimens are to blame for the increase in the parasite. An article from Slate Magazine explains Crypto can live in chlorinated water for weeks. This is only compounded by the fact that one in eight swimming pools is in violation of public health ordinances.
Swimming pools can be outfitted with equipment that can sanitize the water, but the process can be extremely expensive.
So, what can you do to prevent Crypto infections? The answer is simple—don’t defecate in the water and don’t swim in potentially contaminated areas. Crypto is spread through fecal matter, so it’s vital that parents teach their children to exit the water anytime they need to use the restroom. Caution should also be taken when swimming in natural waterways and swimming holes.
The legal staff at Ponce Law recognizes the serious threat waterborne pathogens can pose to swimmers. Our Nashville personal injury lawyers hope these tips help keep you and your loved ones safe in the water this summer.
